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–+ servings
Cajun Crab Pasta

Cajun Crab Pasta: Creamy Comfort with a Spicy Kick

Indulge in Cajun Crab Pasta, a rich and creamy dish that highlights the beauty of crab meat with a spicy kick.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Fettuccine or Linguine Spaghetti or penne can also be used.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can substitute with olive oil.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Prevents butter from burning.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be swapped for a milder taste.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Other colors can be used.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Optional.
  • 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with half-and-half for lighter.
  • ½ cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for dairy-free.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Vinegar can be substituted.
For the Finishing Touch
  • 1 cup Lump Crab Meat Ensure all shells are removed.
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley Can substitute with chives.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cajun Crab Pasta
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine or linguine, cooking for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and red bell pepper, sautéing for 3-4 minutes. Add garlic, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika; stir for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice until cheese melts.
  4. Incorporate Crab: Gently fold in crab meat into the sauce, cooking for 2-3 minutes until heated without breaking apart.
  5. Combine with Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  6. Serve: Divide pasta into bowls and garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with garlic bread and salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure freshness of ingredients for best flavor. Adjust spice levels according to taste preferences.

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