Are you a seafood lover looking for new ways to indulge in the sweet and savory taste of crab? Look no further! Creamy crab pasta dishes are a staple of many cuisines, and we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering recipes that will satisfy your cravings. From classic Alfredo-style sauces to spicy Cajun-inspired flavors, and from elegant truffle-infused ravioli to comforting mac and cheese, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of creamy crab pasta, exploring the many ways you can combine fresh crab with pasta, cream, garlic, lemon, herbs, and spices. Whether you’re a fan of rich and indulgent sauces or light and refreshing summer dishes, there’s a recipe here that will become your new favorite go-to.
Stay tuned for a culinary journey around the world, where we’ll explore different techniques, flavors, and ingredients to bring out the best in these creamy crab pasta recipes.
Garlic Butter Crab Linguine
This decadent pasta dish combines succulent crab meat with a rich garlic butter sauce, served over tender linguine noodles. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add crab meat, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the crab is lightly heated through.
4. Stir in the remaining 2 tbsp of butter until melted and well combined with the crab mixture.
5. Toss cooked linguine with the garlic butter crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Crab Alfredo Pasta
This indulgent pasta dish combines succulent crab meat with a rich and creamy alfredo sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be enjoying this delightful dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat and stir until heated through.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and crab alfredo sauce. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Crab Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of sweet crab meat, spicy heat, and tangy tomatoes with al dente pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to soften (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in crab meat, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, until crab is heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-crab mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss until well combined.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab and Lemon Spaghetti
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines succulent crab meat with a zesty lemon sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious spaghetti dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat, lemon juice, and white wine (if using). Stir gently to combine.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir until the sauce coats the spaghetti.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Crab Fettuccine
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine with the decadence of crab and pasta, creating a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for an additional minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly, then stir in Cajun seasoning and paprika. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in crab meat and cooked fettuccine. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Crab Carbonara with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Crab Carbonara infused with fresh herbs. This dish combines succulent crab meat, rich eggs, and tender spaghetti, all tied together with the brightness of parsley and chives.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 4 large egg yolks
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in crab meat and cook until heated through.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and season with salt and pepper.
5. Drain spaghetti and add to the skillet with crab meat. Toss to combine.
6. Pour egg yolk mixture over pasta and stir until well coated.
7. Remove from heat and stir in parsley and chives. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Mushroom Penne
This seafood-inspired pasta dish combines succulent crab meat with earthy mushrooms in a rich and creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying penne shape. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crab meat and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until sauce has thickened slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the crab and mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai-Inspired Crab Noodle Bowl
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this vibrant noodle bowl, featuring succulent crab and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (bell, red, and yellow), sliced
– 2 cups bean sprouts
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (2-3 minutes).
3. Add bell peppers; cook until tender (3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add crab meat, broth, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using); stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve noodles in bowls; top with crab mixture and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Avocado Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines succulent crab meat with creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and crunchy veggies for a light and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crab meat, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Truffle Crab Ravioli
Experience the rich flavors of the sea with this decadent Truffle Crab Ravioli dish. A perfect combination of tender crab meat, earthy truffles, and homemade pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 package fresh wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon truffle oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
– Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, butter, garlic, truffle oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Brush edges with egg wash. Fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing edges to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ravioli for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Corn Bucatini
Crab and Corn Bucatini: A Fresh Take on Italian Fusion
This dish combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the brininess of succulent crab, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy bucatini pasta. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bucatini pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook bucatini according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in crab meat, corn kernels, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked bucatini with the crab and corn mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Pesto Fusilli
Elevate your pasta game with this indulgent Crab Pesto Fusilli recipe, featuring succulent crab meat and vibrant pesto sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo or claw)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Stir in the lump crab meat.
4. Toss cooked fusilli pasta with the crab pesto sauce until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Wine Crab Linguine
This recipe is a classic seafood dish that combines succulent crab meat with white wine, garlic, and linguine pasta for a flavorful and light meal. With its delicate balance of sweet and savory notes, this dish is perfect for any 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)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Pour in white wine and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
6. Combine cooked linguine with crab meat mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Spinach Tortellini
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and elegant dish, featuring succulent crab and nutritious spinach wrapped in tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh cheese tortellini
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until heated through (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted (about 30 seconds). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked tortellini and crab mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Mac and Cheese
This rich and indulgent pasta dish combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the decadence of crab meat. A perfect twist on a classic, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
7. Add cooked macaroni, crab meat, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chili Crab Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and flavorful Chili Crab Spaghetti recipe. This unique fusion combines the spiciness of chili flakes with the sweetness of crab, all wrapped up in a savory spaghetti dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti 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.
3. Add crab meat and chili flakes; stir until crab is well coated with the spice mixture.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with the chili crab sauce, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Artichoke Pasta Bake
This rich and flavorful pasta bake combines succulent crab meat with tender artichoke hearts, creamy sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add crab meat and artichoke hearts; stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta, crab mixture, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Crab and Bacon Farfalle
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of this creamy pasta dish, packed with succulent crab meat and crispy bacon. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add crab meat and cooked bacon to the cream sauce. Toss gently to combine.
6. Combine cooked farfalle pasta with the creamy crab and bacon mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of the sea 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 Tomato Pasta, there’s a dish for every taste. Discover international inspirations like Thai-Inspired Crab Noodle Bowl and Cajun Crab Fettuccine, or go for comfort with Crab Mac and Cheese. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or decadent and indulgent, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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