Name: Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 8 ounces large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 6 ounces lump crab meat; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Salt and black pepper to taste

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Get ready for a restaurant-worthy meal at home: Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab is pure indulgence on a plate. Delicate strands of pasta are swirled with a rich, garlicky cream sauce, tender shrimp, and sweet, flaky crab. Each bite delivers the ocean’s finest flavors, finished with a bright pop of lemon and fresh parsley. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy date night, a family celebration, or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to earn rave reviews and seconds all around.

Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This delicious Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab comes together with a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients that make each bite unforgettable. Every component plays a key role—so choose the freshest you can find for truly exceptional results.

Pasta (8 ounces linguine or spaghetti): The ultimate comfort base that soaks up the luscious sauce beautifully.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds silkiness and richness without overpowering the delicate seafood.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The aromatic backbone, infusing the sauce with deep, irresistible flavor.
Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon): A gentle kick of heat that wakes up the whole dish.
Large shrimp (8 ounces, peeled and deveined): Succulent, juicy bites that bring classic seafood sweetness.
Lump crab meat (6 ounces): The show-stopping star—tender, ultra-flavorful, and subtly sweet.
Dry white wine (1/2 cup): Lifts the richness of the sauce, adding a bright, slightly acidic note.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates a velvety sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds nutty depth and finishes the sauce with savory complexity.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Wakes everything up with freshness and zing right before serving.
Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Intensifies the lemon flavor and adds gorgeous aroma.
Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): A shower of green that brings balance and color to the dish.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential final seasoning—taste as you go for the perfect balance.

How to Make Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of well-salted water to a lively boil; this is where your pasta gets its first layer of flavor. Drop in the linguine or spaghetti and cook until just al dente—remember, it’ll finish cooking in the sauce, so keep a close eye to avoid overcooking. Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water just in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, giving them a quick stir for about a minute. Don’t let the garlic brown—just let it release its beautiful fragrance, setting the stage for everything that’s to come.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp & Add Crab

Toss the prepared shrimp into the skillet in a single layer. Sauté for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a pretty pink and appear opaque. Gently stir in the lump crab meat and cook for just one more minute; the crab doesn’t need long—just enough to warm through and mingle with the garlicky oil.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour the dry white wine into the skillet, scraping up any tasty bits that may have stuck to the bottom. Let this mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes, giving the alcohol time to cook off while concentrating all the wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to gently thicken and come together. You’re aiming for a silky texture that’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still luscious and moist.

Step 6: Finish and Toss

Add the cooked pasta directly to the creamy seafood sauce, tossing gently to combine. Now is the magic moment—brighten the whole dish with lemon juice, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and plenty of fresh parsley. Give everything a generous seasoning of salt and black pepper, then plate immediately to enjoy the ultimate Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab experience.

How to Serve Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab

Garnishes

A sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley is classic, adding a vibrant pop of color and flavor. For extra flair, try a little more lemon zest, a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan, or even a few delicate microgreens on top. If you enjoy a touch more heat, a light pinch of red pepper flakes right at the table is never out of place.

Side Dishes

Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad—think arugula, fennel, and a tangy vinaigrette. Warm, crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for swiping up every last bit of creamy sauce. For a heartier spread, roasted asparagus or sautéed broccolini on the side rounds out the meal wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress up your presentation by twirling the pasta into little nests for individual plates, nestling shrimp and crab on top for an inviting look. Serve in shallow bowls to capture and showcase the silky sauce, or try mini portions in ramekins for an impressive starter at a dinner party. A drizzle of finishing olive oil over each plate right before serving adds a beautiful sheen and aroma.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Be sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and freshness.

Freezing

While cream-based sauces and delicate seafood generally aren’t ideal for freezing, you can freeze leftovers in a pinch. Store portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to one month. When thawed, be prepared for possible changes in sauce texture—stir gently when reheating to bring everything back together.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. If microwaving, use low power and pause to stir frequently, ensuring the seafood doesn’t overcook or turn rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp and crab meat?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and gently pat dry the shrimp and crab before cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture and keeps your sauce from turning watery.

What kind of white wine is best for this recipe?

A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay (unoaked) is perfect. If you prefer not to cook with wine, seafood stock or a splash of chicken broth can fill in very nicely.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the linguine or spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy substitution.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Be sure to lower the heat before adding the cream, and add it slowly while stirring. Avoid boiling once the cream is in; gentle heat will keep your sauce creamy and smooth.

What other seafood can I add?

Feel free to get creative—scallops, calamari, or even chunks of firm white fish work beautifully alongside the shrimp and crab. Add more or less of your favorites for a custom seafood pasta masterpiece.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that feels both special and comforting, Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab is a true showstopper. Every creamy, lemony, seafood-studded forkful reminds you how easy it is to create magic in your own kitchen. Don’t wait for a special occasion—grab these fresh ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistible meal tonight!

Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab Recipe

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4.5 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a luxurious seafood pasta dish with this recipe for Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Crab. A creamy, flavorful combination of shrimp, lump crab meat, and pasta in a rich Parmesan cream sauce brightened with lemon juice and zest. Perfect for a special dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Linguine:

8 ounces linguine or spaghetti

Seafood:

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
8 ounces large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
6 ounces lump crab meat

Sauce:

1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Seafood: In a skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes. Add shrimp and cook until pink. Add crab meat, white wine, and simmer.
Make Sauce: Stir in cream and Parmesan. Cook until slightly thickened. Add cooked pasta, lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.