One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo – A Creamy Seafood Delight

If you love rich, creamy pasta dishes but hate doing a sink full of dishes, this One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is for you! This recipe delivers a decadent, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. The combination of succulent shrimp, tender crab meat, and silky Parmesan Alfredo sauce coats every bite of fettuccine or linguine.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you’re craving comfort food, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes in just one pot! Say goodbye to multiple pans and complicated steps—this recipe is as easy as it is impressive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ One-Pot Wonder – Less mess, fewer dishes, and maximum flavor!
✔ Rich & Creamy – The Alfredo sauce is smooth, cheesy, and absolutely indulgent.
✔ Seafood Lover’s Dream – A perfect balance of shrimp and crab in every bite.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes for a hassle-free meal.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for both casual meals and elegant dinners.

Ingredients for One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups chicken or seafood broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Seafood:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 cup lump crab meat, drained and flaked

Kitchen Equipment Needed

✔ Large Pot or Dutch Oven – To cook everything in one pot.
✔ Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the pasta and sauce.
✔ Measuring Cups & Spoons – To ensure precise ingredient amounts.
✔ Colander (Optional) – In case you need to drain excess liquid.

How to Make One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Heat Olive Oil – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.

2. Sauté Garlic – Add 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Add Broth & Pasta – Pour in 2 cups chicken or seafood broth, then add 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine. Bring to a boil.

2. Simmer Until Tender – Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and absorbs most of the liquid.

Step 3: Add Cream and Seafood

1. Stir in Heavy Cream – Once the pasta is cooked, pour in 1 cup heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

2. Add Shrimp and Crab – Gently fold in 1 pound shrimp and 1 cup lump crab meat. Cook until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese & Serve

1. Add Parmesan – Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.

2. Season to Taste – Add salt and black pepper as needed.

3. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing:

• Not recommended due to the dairy-based sauce, which may separate when thawed.

Reheating Instructions:

• Stovetop: Heat on low, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.

• Microwave: Heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

🔹 Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
🔹 Extra Cheesy – Mix in grated Gruyère or mozzarella for a richer sauce.
🔹 Spicy Kick – Add crushed red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
🔹 Dairy-Free Alternative – Substitute coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan.
🔹 Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta and check that your broth is GF-friendly.

What to Serve with One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo

🥖 Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
🥗 Fresh Green Salad – Balances the richness of the pasta.
🍋 Lemon Wedges – Adds a bright citrus touch to cut through the creaminess.
🍷 Wine Pairing – A light Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.
🥦 Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts make great sides.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before adding them to the pot.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best fresh, but you can prep the seafood in advance for quicker cooking.

What can I use instead of crab?

If you don’t have crab, try using lobster, scallops, or even chicken for a different twist.

Why is my sauce too thick or too thin?

• Too thick? Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it.

• Too thin? Let it simmer a little longer to reduce and thicken.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with seafood goodness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, romantic dinners, or special occasions when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

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Happy cooking!