Get ready to indulge in a world of flavor and comfort with these 18 creamy crab pasta delight recipes! Whether you’re a seafood lover, a pasta aficionado, or just looking for a new twist on a classic dish, this collection has something for everyone. From rich and buttery sauces to spicy kickers and fresh herb-infused flavors, each recipe features the star of the show: succulent crab meat. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of creamy crab pasta, with recipes that range from classic comfort food to innovative twists and fusion flavors.
Garlic Butter Crab Linguine
This recipe combines succulent crab meat with garlic butter sauce, served over linguine pasta for a rich and indulgent seafood dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until crab is heated through.
5. Combine cooked linguine pasta with the garlic butter crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Crab Alfredo Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of this decadent pasta dish featuring succulent crab and a velvety alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp (30ml) butter
– 1 cup (250g) lump crab meat, flaked
– 1/2 cup (125g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups (375ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add crab meat; cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
3. Sprinkle flour over crab mixture; whisk to combine. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened to your liking. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy crab sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Crab Tomato Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and spicy recipe that combines succulent crab, juicy tomatoes, and a hint of heat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Stir in crab meat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato-crab mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Crab and Lemon Spaghetti
This recipe combines the sweetness of crab meat with the brightness of lemon, creating a light and refreshing twist on traditional spaghetti. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and lemon juice over medium heat for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat, white wine (if using), and parsley. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Toss cooked spaghetti with the crab mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Crab Fettuccine
A spicy twist on the classic pasta dish, this Cajun Crab Fettuccine combines succulent crab meat with a bold and flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning and flour over the mixture; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring sauce to a simmer.
5. Stir in crab meat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab Carbonara with Fresh Herbs
Elevate the classic Italian dish by incorporating fresh herbs and succulent crab meat. This recipe is a perfect blend of rich flavors and textures, sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp chopped fresh chives
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat and cook until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and season with salt, black pepper, and chopped herbs (parsley and chives).
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Combine cooked crab mixture with spaghetti and egg mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until eggs are cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Corn Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines succulent crab meat with sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy vegetables, all tied together with a zesty dressing. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and cucumber.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour dressing over the crab mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked pasta and toss until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Stuffed Shells in White Wine Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent recipe that combines the richness of crab meat with the comfort of shells and a tangy white wine sauce. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each shell with the crab mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until shells are al dente.
6. In a large saucepan, combine white wine and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Serve shells with white wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crab and Mushroom Penne
This recipe combines succulent crab meat with earthy mushrooms and al dente penne pasta, creating a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in white wine until tender. Add heavy cream and thyme; simmer for 2 minutes.
3. Stir in crab meat; cook until heated through.
4. Combine cooked penne pasta with mushroom-crab mixture, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai-Inspired Crab Curry Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this aromatic crab curry noodle dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add garlic and ginger; cook 1 minute.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook 30 seconds.
4. Add coconut milk and cumin; bring to a simmer.
5. Add crab meat; stir gently to combine.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until crab is heated through.
7. Combine cooked noodles with the crab curry mixture; season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Crab and Avocado Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines succulent crab meat with creamy avocado, tangy lemon juice, and al dente pasta for a delightful summer treat. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, this dish is also great for potlucks and outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, avocado, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with parsley leaves, if desired. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking time)
Truffle Oil Crab Tagliatelle
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Truffle Oil Crab Tagliatelle recipe, featuring succulent crab meat and a hint of luxurious truffle flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz tagliatelle pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup Truffle Oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tagliatelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in white wine and Truffle Oil. Stir to combine, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. Combine cooked pasta and crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
Elevate your pasta game with these decadent crab and spinach lasagna rolls, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, spinach, ricotta cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat and spoon about 1/4 cup of the crab mixture onto the center of the noodle. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
5. Top each roll with shredded mozzarella cheese and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
This rich and satisfying dish combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the indulgent flavors of fresh crab meat. With a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup fresh lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat; cook 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat; stir in butter until melted. Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, crab meat, and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
7. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
8. Bake 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Crab and Artichoke Pasta Bake
Savor the rich flavors of Maryland’s famous crab and the tender sweetness of artichokes in this satisfying pasta bake.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 cup artichoke hearts, canned or fresh
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add crab meat, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, and scallions. Cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and heavy cream until smooth. Pour mixture into the skillet with crab mixture; stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, crab-artichoke mixture, and salt to taste in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crab Fra Diavolo with Angel Hair
This recipe combines the flavors of succulent crab meat, garlic, red pepper flakes, and a hint of spice, all wrapped up in a bed of delicate angel hair pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz angel hair pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add crab meat, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
5. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine cooked pasta and crab mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful dish that combines succulent crab, sweet roasted red peppers, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss red bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine garlic, white wine (if using), and crab meat. Cook over medium heat until heated through.
5. Add roasted red peppers to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked pasta and crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crab Pesto Fusilli with Pine Nuts
This vibrant pasta dish combines succulent crab meat with a rich and creamy pesto sauce, all wrapped up with crispy fusilli noodles and toasted pine nuts. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli noodles
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz jumbo lump crab meat (drained)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook fusilli noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add crab meat and cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Add cooked fusilli noodles to the skillet with crab meat. Toss to combine.
5. Stir in pesto sauce until well combined. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy, crabby goodness with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From classic pasta dishes like Garlic Butter Crab Linguine and Creamy Crab Alfredo Pasta, to spicy twists like Spicy Crab Tomato Pasta and Cajun Crab Fettuccine, there’s something for every taste bud. Enjoy the comforting combination of crab and lemon in Crab and Lemon Spaghetti, or try your hand at seafood-inspired salads like Crab and Corn Pasta Salad. Whatever your preference, these recipes are sure to delight!
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