Description
This Cajun Crab Pasta brings together the richness of tender lump crab meat with a creamy, zesty Cajun sauce. A perfect fusion of spice and luxury, it features a flavorful combination of sautéed vegetables, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and the velvety smoothness of heavy cream. Finished with a touch of fresh lemon juice and Parmesan, this dish delivers layers of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re craving a comforting seafood dish or looking to impress guests with something special, this Cajun Crab Pasta is the perfect choice for a delicious, indulgent meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 lb lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2️⃣ Sauté Vegetables and Aromatics:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until they soften, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice. Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Add the Crab Meat:
Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much. Allow the crab to heat through in the sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
5️⃣ Combine Pasta with Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Cajun crab sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up until you reach your desired consistency.
6️⃣ Serve:
Garnish the pasta with chopped parsley and a bit of extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of seasoning and skip the crushed red pepper flakes.
- If lump crab meat is unavailable, you can substitute it with claw meat, though lump crab has a firmer texture and a more delicate flavor.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
- For extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4