Description
A creamy and flavorful Cajun-inspired pasta dish, loaded with tender crab meat, fresh vegetables, and a kick of Cajun spice. This dish brings together the richness of the cream sauce with the zesty heat of Cajun seasoning, creating a meal that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine (or pasta of your choice)
- For the Sauce and Crab:
- 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 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ 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:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water for later if needed.
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 red bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Let the sauce thicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Add the Crab Meat:
Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much. Allow the crab to warm through in the sauce for 2-3 minutes.
5️⃣ Combine Pasta with Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Cajun sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
6️⃣ Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, paired with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more Cajun seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier kick.
- Alternative Proteins: Shrimp or chicken can be used in place of crab for a different take on this dish.