When it comes to indulgent comfort food with a spicy twist, Shrimp and Lump Crab Cajun Alfredo Pasta checks all the boxes. This dish combines the luxurious creaminess of Alfredo sauce with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, perfectly complementing tender shrimp and sweet lump crab meat. It’s an ideal meal for a cozy night in, yet impressive enough to serve at dinner parties. Let’s dive into this decadent recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need 250g of peeled and deveined shrimp, 200g of fresh lump crab meat, and 300g of pasta (fettuccine or linguine works best). To enhance the dish, you’ll use 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 3 minced garlic cloves for a rich, aromatic base. The Alfredo sauce calls for 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, seasoned with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for that signature Cajun kick. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
Instructions
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water to help adjust the sauce later, then drain the pasta and set it aside. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the smoked paprika and Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Gently fold the lump crab meat into the sauce, followed by the cooked shrimp. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if needed. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until it is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Tips
For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp and lump crab meat. If fresh isn’t available, high-quality frozen shrimp and canned lump crab meat can be substituted. To elevate the dish even more, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth. Be careful not to overcook the seafood, as shrimp and crab can quickly become rubbery.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cajun Alfredo pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an extra kick, you could also serve it with a side of hot sauce or chili flakes.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can also be frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQ
Can I substitute the seafood?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other seafood like scallops or even chicken if you prefer.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while fettuccine and linguine are traditional choices, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, such as penne or spaghetti.
Is there a dairy-free option?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a vegan Parmesan alternative to make this dish dairy-free.
Conclusion
Shrimp and Lump Crab Cajun Alfredo Pasta is a decadent and flavorful dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s a perfect choice for those who love bold flavors and creamy sauces, offering a taste of New Orleans right in your kitchen. Try this recipe today and bring a little Southern flair to your dinner table.
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🍤 Shrimp and Lump Crab Cajun Alfredo Pasta
Description
Shrimp and Lump Crab Cajun Alfredo Pasta combines creamy Alfredo sauce with bold Cajun spices, tender shrimp, and sweet lump crab meat, creating a dish that’s as luxurious as it is flavorful.
Ingredients
• 250g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 200g lump crab meat
• 300g pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta until al dente and reserve ½ cup pasta water. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Heat olive oil in a skillet, season shrimp with Cajun seasoning, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3️⃣ Melt butter in the skillet, sauté garlic, then stir in heavy cream, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until smooth.
4️⃣ Fold in lump crab meat and cooked shrimp. Season with salt and pepper.
5️⃣ Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water for desired consistency. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving