Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with our collection of 18 creamy crab pasta delight recipes! Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and buttery linguine, a spicy fra diavolo, or a classic carbonara, we’ve got you covered. Crab is a versatile ingredient that pairs perfectly with a variety of sauces and ingredients, making it a staple in many cuisines around the world.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of creamy crab pasta, featuring recipes that range from comforting classics to innovative twists. From the simplicity of garlic butter linguine to the bold flavors of Cajun fettuccine, each dish is designed to showcase the versatility and deliciousness of crab in pasta form.
Stay tuned for the full list of mouthwatering recipes below!
Garlic Butter Crab Linguine
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Garlic Butter Crab Linguine recipe, featuring succulent crab meat and a rich, buttery sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– 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 cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add crab meat and stir to combine with garlic butter mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Toss cooked linguine pasta with garlic butter crab sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Crab Alfredo Pasta
A rich and indulgent pasta dish that combines the flavors of succulent crab meat with a creamy alfredo sauce, all wrapped up in a comforting bed of fettuccine.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz (225g) jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked pasta and flaked crab meat to the saucepan. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Crab Fra Diavolo
This spicy seafood pasta dish combines succulent crab meat with a bold and fiery tomato sauce, perfect for those who crave a little heat. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add crab meat and cook until heated through, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, hot sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked linguine and tomato mixture; toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Lemon Zest Spaghetti
This dish is a perfect blend of flavors, combining the sweetness of crab with the brightness of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat, white wine, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until crab is heated through.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with crab mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Crab Fettuccine
Get ready for a spicy twist on classic fettuccine with this mouthwatering Cajun crab dish, featuring succulent lump crab meat and a bold spice blend.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk to combine.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Add crab meat and cook until heated through.
6. Combine cooked fettuccine with the crab mixture; toss to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Carbonara with Fresh Herbs
Elevate the humble carbonara with succulent crab and a burst of fresh herbs. This recipe combines the rich flavors of bacon, eggs, and parmesan with the tender sweetness of jumbo lump crab meat.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) jumbo lump crab meat
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 1 tsp (5ml) Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Fresh chives or tarragon, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pancetta in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked pancetta to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
4. Gently fold in crab meat, taking care not to break up the lumps.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine the egg-crab mixture with cooked spaghetti and toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Crab Penne
A classic Italian-inspired dish gets a seafood twist with this flavorful Tomato Basil Crab Penne recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne 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 onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and add crab meat. Stir gently to combine.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the tomato-crab sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab and Mushroom Stroganoff
A creamy and flavorful twist on the classic Russian dish, this Crab and Mushroom Stroganoff combines succulent crab meat with sautéed mushrooms and a hint of Dijon mustard.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked egg noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in crab meat, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Crab Orzo
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines succulent crab, tangy lemon, and savory garlic with the comforting goodness of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. orzo pasta
– 1 lb. jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo 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. Stir in lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Gently fold in crab meat, being careful not to break up the lumps.
5. Combine cooked orzo with crab mixture. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Avocado Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer pasta salad that combines succulent crab meat with creamy avocado, all tossed with al dente pasta and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, avocado, red onion, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Crab and Corn Bucatini
This recipe combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of crab, all wrapped up in a delicious bucatini pasta dish. Perfect for a summer evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz bucatini pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook bucatini 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 cook 1 minute.
3. Add corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in crab meat, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half.
6. Combine cooked pasta with crab and corn mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Crab Tortellini
A classic Italian dish gets a decadent twist with the addition of succulent crab and creamy pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package tortellini (cheese-filled)
– 8 oz jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in crab meat and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add pesto to the skillet and stir until combined with crab. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss with crab mixture, adding reserved pasta cooking water if needed.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, indulgent recipe that combines the freshness of spinach with the richness of crab.
Ingredients:
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Spread a thin layer of the crab-spinach mixture onto each cooked lasagna noodle, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Roll up each noodle tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the rolls and garnish with parsley leaves.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Wine Crab Linguine
A delicate and flavorful seafood dish that combines succulent crab meat with a hint of white wine, garlic, and herbs, served over a bed of linguine pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick and impressive dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine 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, white wine, chicken broth, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the crab is fully coated.
5. Toss cooked linguine pasta with the crab sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Artichoke Pasta Bake
A rich and creamy pasta dish packed with chunks of succulent crab meat and tender artichoke hearts, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. This hearty bake is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic, crab meat, and artichoke hearts in olive oil until heated through.
4. Combine cooked pasta, crab mixture, and cheddar cheese in a baking dish.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab Mac and Cheese
This creamy, indulgent pasta dish combines the richness of crab meat with the comfort of macaroni and cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked macaroni, crab meat, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Thai-Inspired Crab Noodle Bowl
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this vibrant noodle bowl, featuring succulent crab, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound linguine pasta
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, and yellow), sliced
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add bell peppers; cook until tender (5 minutes).
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add crab meat, coconut milk, fish sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the crab mixture. Garnish with cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Sun-Dried Tomato Farfalle
This elegant pasta dish combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the richness of crab, all wrapped up in a delicate farfalle shape.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Add cooked farfalle pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with crab and tomato mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a seafood lover’s dream with these 18 creamy crab pasta recipes! From classic combinations like Garlic Butter Crab Linguine and Creamy Crab Alfredo Pasta, to spicy twists like Spicy Crab Fra Diavolo, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing succulent crab meat with bright citrus flavors, or add some heat with Cajun seasoning. And don’t forget the veggie lovers – options like Tomato Basil Crab Penne and Pesto Crab Tortellini bring a fresh twist to this decadent dish.
