Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab


  • 12 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work well)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 1/2 cup chicken or seafood stock
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 lb lump crabmeat (fresh or high-quality canned)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice or zest (for brightness)
  • Steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
  2. Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  3. Stir in the heavy cream, seafood stock, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

3. Cook the Seafood

  1. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
  2. Gently fold in the crabmeat, being careful not to break it up too much. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, just until the crab is heated through.
  3. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and optional lemon juice or zest.

4. Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water.
  2. Stir in Parmesan cheese (if using) for added richness.

5. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Divide the pasta among serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley.
  2. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese, crusty bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

  • Use High-Quality Seafood: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp and crabmeat make a big difference in flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
  • Add Vegetables: Toss in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
  • Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream with coconut milk and skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

Why This Recipe Works

This Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab combines tender pasta, succulent seafood, and a creamy, flavorful sauce into one satisfying dish. The garlic and white wine add depth, while the cream creates a luscious base that ties everything together. Whether served as a main course or a special occasion meal, this recipe delivers big on taste and elegance without requiring advanced cooking skills.

Conclusion: A Taste of Luxury at Home

Whether you’re craving a comforting seafood dish, looking to impress guests, or simply want to try something new, this Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, creamy textures, and ease of preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can customize it to suit any occasion.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this seafood pasta might just inspire others to try it too! 🍤✨



 

;