Name: Crab Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta; 4 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 4 oz cream cheese, cut into pieces; 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and white or black pepper, to taste; 8 oz lump crabmeat, picked over for shells

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crab Fettuccine Alfredo is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. The creamy Alfredo sauce, made with butter, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese, coats the fettuccine in a luscious, velvety texture. The addition of fresh lump crabmeat gives this dish a delightful seafood twist, elevating the traditional pasta dish to something extra special. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, requiring only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a sophisticated dinner for guests.

Crab Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine pasta
4 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
4 oz cream cheese, cut into pieces
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and white or black pepper to taste
8 oz lump crabmeat, picked over for shells

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 30-60 seconds until it forms a roux.
Gradually add the milk while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Stir in the cream cheese and continue to whisk until the sauce is smooth.
Add the Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
Gently fold in the crabmeat and heat through, being careful not to over-stir.
Toss the cooked fettuccine with the sauce, or spoon the sauce over individual servings. Garnish with extra parsley if desired and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Lobster Fettuccine Alfredo: Swap the lump crabmeat for cooked lobster meat for a luxe twist.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the crabmeat and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian alternative.
Spicy Crab Fettuccine Alfredo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free fettuccine pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Add Vegetables: Stir in some cooked broccoli or peas to make the dish more nutritious and colorful.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Crab Fettuccine Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

1. How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from separating?

To keep your sauce smooth and creamy, avoid overheating the sauce after adding the milk and cream cheese. Stir constantly, and once it’s creamy, keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from curdling.

2. Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the fettuccine with other pasta like penne, linguine, or tagliatelle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta used.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and store it separately in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve, then toss with freshly cooked pasta and crabmeat.

4. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, you can cook it a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce.

5. Is this recipe spicy?

No, the recipe is not spicy unless you add optional ingredients like red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.

6. Can I use pre-cooked crabmeat?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked crabmeat to save time. Just be sure to fold it in gently at the end to prevent it from overcooking.

7. How do I ensure my crabmeat doesn’t get overcooked?

Add the crabmeat at the very end and heat it gently in the sauce, just until warmed through, to avoid overcooking.

8. Can I freeze Crab Fettuccine Alfredo?

While pasta dishes with creamy sauces don’t freeze well, you can freeze the sauce separately. Reheat it and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

9. What can I substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?

You can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone cheese or heavy cream if you prefer a smoother texture or want a less tangy flavor.

10. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Crab Fettuccine Alfredo is a simple yet indulgent dish that brings the richness of creamy Alfredo sauce and sweet crabmeat together with tender pasta. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something creamy, comforting, and just a little bit luxurious. Enjoy this flavorful dish with loved ones and savor every bite!