Shrimp and Lump Crab Cajun Alfredo Pasta is a luxurious fusion of Cajun spices and creamy Alfredo goodness. Packed with tender shrimp, succulent crab, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish is perfect for seafood lovers. Whether you’re preparing a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
To create this decadent dish, you’ll need 250g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 200g lump crab meat; 300g pasta (fettuccine or linguine works best); 2 tablespoons of butter; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups of heavy cream; 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika; salt and pepper to taste; and fresh parsley for garnish.
Instructions
Begin by boiling your pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, reserving half a cup of pasta water before draining. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and cook them for two to three minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside. Using the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy. Add the lump crab meat and cooked shrimp back into the skillet, mixing gently to coat in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to achieve the desired consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips for Perfect Cajun Alfredo Pasta
For the best results, use fresh seafood for maximum flavor. If fresh lump crab isn’t available, high-quality canned crab can work as a substitute. To enhance the Cajun flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes. For a slightly smoky touch, use a smoked paprika variety. When cooking the pasta, ensure it’s not overcooked as it will continue to absorb the sauce when mixed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta dish with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the Alfredo. For drinks, a chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the seafood beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken when chilled. Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent the sauce from separating.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can substitute fettuccine or linguine with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Choose a pasta that holds sauce well for the best experience.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe? While this dish is seafood-centric, you can create a vegetarian version by replacing the shrimp and crab with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the Alfredo sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Combine and heat them together just before serving to maintain the creamy texture.
Conclusion
Shrimp and Lump Crab Cajun Alfredo Pasta is the perfect harmony of bold Cajun spices and creamy indulgence. This dish brings together the richness of Alfredo sauce with the fresh, briny sweetness of seafood. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and yields restaurant-quality results. Try it today for a meal that’s as comforting as it is impressive.
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Shrimp and Lump Crab Cajun Alfredo Pasta
Description
A luxurious blend of shrimp, lump crab, and creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce, this pasta dish delivers bold flavors and rich textures in every bite.
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, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
2️⃣ Heat olive oil in a skillet, season shrimp with Cajun seasoning, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
4️⃣ Add heavy cream, smoked paprika, and Parmesan. Stir until smooth.
5️⃣ Stir in crab meat and cooked shrimp. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6️⃣ Toss pasta in sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
7️⃣ Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Enjoy!