If you love the rich comfort of classic Alfredo pasta but crave a touch of the sea, this Crab Fettuccine Alfredo is the perfect recipe. Tender fettuccine is coated in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, then tossed with sweet, delicate lump crabmeat. Finished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon, it’s an elegant yet simple dinner that feels gourmet in just 30 minutes.
Whether for a date night, holiday dinner, or a weeknight treat, this creamy crab Alfredo recipe brings indulgence to the table without complicated steps.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 lb fettuccine pasta
- ¼ cup butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional, for extra seafood flavor)
- 8 oz lump crabmeat (fresh or canned, drained)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
Step 2 – Make the Sauce Base
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3 – Build the Creamy Alfredo
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Step 4 – Add Cheese and Seasonings
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and Old Bay if desired. Adjust thickness with a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 5 – Combine with Pasta and Crab
Toss the cooked fettuccine in the sauce until well coated. Gently fold in lump crabmeat, being careful not to break it apart too much.
Step 6 – Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta and sprinkle with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant Yet Simple – Perfect for dinner parties or weeknights.
- Seafood Twist – Crabmeat adds sweetness and luxury to classic Alfredo.
- Rich & Creamy – Garlic-Parmesan cream sauce clings beautifully to pasta.
- Quick & Easy – On the table in just 30 minutes.
Tips and Variations
- Seafood Mix: Add shrimp or scallops for extra indulgence.
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Herb Lovers: Add fresh basil or thyme for depth.
- Extra Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
- Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
What to Serve with Crab Fettuccine Alfredo
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- Caesar salad or arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach
- White wine pairing: Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 27 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 64 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 3 g
FAQs
Can I use canned crabmeat?
Yes. Drain well and check for shells before adding to the pasta.
Can I substitute another protein?
Shrimp, lobster, or even chicken work well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.
Is Old Bay necessary?
No, but it enhances the seafood flavor beautifully.
Conclusion
This Crab Fettuccine Alfredo is the ultimate seafood comfort dish. With rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, tender pasta, and sweet crabmeat, it’s a luxurious yet easy meal that brings restaurant quality to your kitchen. Serve it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, and a chilled glass of wine for a truly special dinner.
