If there’s one thing that instantly transports me to a breezy seaside evening, it’s a bowl of creamy, dreamy seafood pasta. And this one? Oh, it’s a total showstopper. Packed with succulent shrimp, tender crab, and swirled with a luscious, savory sauce it’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but is secretly super simple to make. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just craving something extra cozy and indulgent, this recipe has your name written all over it. Trust me, you’re going to love this. So grab your favorite pasta and let’s dive into a plateful of coastal comfort.

Why You’ll Love Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: You can swap in your favorite seafood or even make it spicier for a little kick there’s room to play here.

Budget-Friendly: Seafood dishes often seem pricey, but this one makes the most of simple ingredients to give you that restaurant vibe without the restaurant bill.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknights! It looks impressive, but comes together with minimal fuss.

Customizable: Go heavy on the garlic, add some chili flakes, or toss in veggies it’s all up to you.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab

Here’s the magic of this pasta—it brings bold, briny, creamy goodness together using ingredients you probably already love.

Shrimp: Plump, juicy shrimp are the highlight here. They cook quickly and soak up the sauce beautifully.

Crab Meat: Sweet and delicate, crab adds an extra layer of luxury that takes this pasta to the next level.

Pasta: A hearty noodle like linguine or fettuccine is perfect for catching all that rich, creamy sauce.

Heavy Cream: This brings a velvety smooth texture that coats every strand of pasta with pure comfort.

Garlic: A must for that savory, mouthwatering aroma and flavor depth.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds that salty, umami-rich punch that rounds out the sauce perfectly.

Butter: Helps to sauté the seafood and adds richness to the base of the sauce.

Lemon Juice: A splash of citrus brightens everything up and keeps the dish from feeling too heavy.

Parsley: For a burst of fresh color and a little herby finish.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors throughout.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sear but not burn the delicate seafood.

Cook the Pasta: Boil your pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining it’s liquid gold for adjusting the sauce later.

Sauté the Shrimp: In your preheated pan, melt butter and sauté the shrimp until pink and just cooked through. Remove and set aside so they don’t overcook.

Add Garlic and Crab: In the same pan, add more butter if needed and gently sauté the garlic until fragrant. Toss in the crab meat and cook just until warmed through.

Make the Sauce: Pour in the cream and let it simmer gently. Stir in the Parmesan and a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce. Let it thicken slightly.

Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finishing Touches: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and give it one final toss. Let it rest for a minute or two so all the flavors can settle.

Serve and Enjoy: Dish it up warm and get ready for the oohs and aahs because they’re coming.

Nutrition Facts: Servings: 4 Calories per serving: 530

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
– A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette helps balance the richness.
– Garlic bread or crusty baguette makes the perfect partner for mopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
– A glass of chilled white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) takes this meal from cozy to elegant.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Don’t overcook the shrimp they should be just pink and plump.
– Fresh crab is ideal, but good-quality canned crab can work too.
– Reserve pasta water it’s your best friend for loosening up the sauce if it thickens too much.
– A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice heat if you’re into a little spice.
– Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor it really makes a difference.
– Stir in some spinach or peas for added color and nutrients.
– Avoid rinsing the pasta starchy noodles help the sauce cling better.
– Parmesan should be freshly grated if possible it melts smoother.
– Taste as you go! It’s the best way to ensure a balanced dish.
– Leftovers can be gently reheated with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

FAQ’s

1 What type of pasta works best for seafood pasta
Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well since they hold the creamy sauce nicely.

2 Can I use frozen shrimp
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

3 Is canned crab okay to use
Yes just go for high-quality lump crab meat for the best flavor.

4 How can I make it spicier
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some kick.

5 Can I use milk instead of cream
You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. Whole milk is the best substitute.

6 How do I store leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.

7 Can I make this dairy-free
Use a dairy-free cream alternative and skip the cheese or use a plant-based option.

8 What other seafood can I use
Scallops, mussels, or chunks of cooked salmon all work beautifully.

9 Can I make it ahead of time
It’s best fresh, but you can prep components like the sauce and seafood ahead.

10 Do I have to use fresh parsley
Not necessarily dried works in a pinch, but fresh adds a lovely pop of flavor and color.

Conclusion

Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab is one of those meals that feels like a little celebration every time you make it. It’s creamy, comforting, and full of rich, ocean-kissed flavors that’ll leave you licking your plate (no shame in that!). Whether you’re whipping it up for a quiet night in or setting the table for guests, this dish brings serious wow factor with minimal effort. So next time you’re craving something special, give this recipe a go you might just fall in love.

Print