Crab Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
Introduction
If you’re a seafood lover looking for a luxurious pasta dish, Crab Fettuccine Alfredo is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the silky richness of a homemade Alfredo sauce with tender lump crabmeat, served over perfectly cooked fettuccine. It’s elegant enough for a romantic dinner or special occasion, yet simple enough to prepare on a weeknight.
This creamy crab pasta is a seafood twist on the classic Italian Alfredo, and once you try it, it might just become your go-to comfort food!
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 pound (450 g) fettuccine pasta
- Water + 1 tablespoon salt for boiling
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 1/4 cup (half a stick) unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Crab
- 1 pound (450 g) lump crabmeat (fresh or good quality canned)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
For Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan for topping
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente (tender but still firm to the bite).
- Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
2. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (do not let it burn).
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir until it begins to simmer.
- Lower the heat and slowly whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in cream cheese (if using) for an extra velvety texture.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
3. Prepare the Crab
- In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the crabmeat and drizzle with lemon juice.
- Gently stir for 2–3 minutes, just until warmed through (do not overcook).
4. Combine Everything
- Add the crabmeat to the Alfredo sauce.
- Toss in the cooked fettuccine, mixing gently so the pasta is fully coated.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
5. Serve
- Plate the pasta in deep bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty kick.
Tips for the Best Crab Alfredo
- Use fresh lump crabmeat if possible—it gives the dish a sweet, delicate flavor.
- Do not overcook the crab; it only needs a gentle warm-through.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
- For a lighter version, replace half the heavy cream with evaporated milk.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or toasted baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
- A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
- For drinks, a crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade works beautifully.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Carbs: 58 g