Description

Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo is a rich, creamy pasta dish featuring tender linguine tossed in a velvety Alfredo sauce infused with sweet crab meat and savory seasonings. Perfect for special occasions, date nights, or homemade meals. Easily made gluten-free or lower-carb.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

– 16 oz linguine pasta (or substitute gluten-free pasta for GF option)

For the Sauce:

– ½ cup unsalted butter

– ¼ cup cream cheese

– 2 cups half & half (room temperature; heavy cream can be substituted)

– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)

– 1 tsp garlic powder

– 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

– Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Protein:

– 1 lb crab meat (fresh or canned; imitation crab can be used as a substitute)

For Garnish (optional):

– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

– Extra Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

In a large pot of salted water, cook the linguine until 2 minutes before al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and cream cheese, stirring constantly until smooth.
Slowly pour in the half & half and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low.
Add the Parmesan cheese in small handfuls, mixing until melted after each addition. Stir in garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to thin the sauce.
Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break up the larger pieces.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

– Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly and can affect the texture of the sauce.

– Avoid overcooking pasta: It will soften slightly when mixed with the sauce, so cook it slightly firmer than al dente.

– Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta and verify that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

– Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze sauce and pasta separately; reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

– Customizations: Add Old Bay seasoning, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for unique flavor twists.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course / Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired / Seafood

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (¼ of recipe)
Calories: ~550
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg (varies with added salt, use low-sodium ingredients to reduce)
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 120mg