Easy One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is the kind of comforting, creamy pasta dish that feels special but is simple enough to make any night of the week. With tender shrimp, sweet crab meat, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, this recipe brings restaurant-style flavor to your kitchen using just one pot and straightforward ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Easy One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
This recipe checks all the right boxes for busy home cooks and seafood lovers alike. First, it is made in a single pot, which means fewer dishes and less cleanup. Everything from cooking the pasta to building the sauce happens in one place, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
Second, the combination of shrimp and crab makes this Alfredo feel extra special without being complicated. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a savory seafood bite, while crab brings a touch of natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with creamy Parmesan sauce.
Finally, this dish is flexible and family-friendly. You can adjust the seasoning, swap ingredients to fit what you have on hand, and easily scale it up for guests or down for a smaller meal. It is rich and satisfying but still approachable, even if you are new to cooking seafood.
Ingredients for Easy One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
Pasta and Seafood
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1/2 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 to 8 oz crab meat, lump or claw meat
Alfredo Sauce Base
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Finish
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional chopped parsley for garnish
Ingredient Notes
If you do not have fettuccine, you can use linguine or spaghetti with similar results. Short pasta like penne can also work, though the sauce will cling differently.
Fresh or frozen shrimp are both fine. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. This helps them sear lightly instead of steaming.
For crab, choose real crab meat rather than imitation for the best flavor. Lump crab gives a more elegant texture, while claw meat is usually more affordable and still delicious.
If you want a slightly lighter sauce, you can replace half of the heavy cream with additional milk. The sauce will be a bit thinner but still creamy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Place a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat and add 1 Tbsp of the butter. Once melted, add the shrimp in a single layer. Sprinkle lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cook the shrimp for about 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook, as they will finish warming later. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same pot, add the remaining 1 Tbsp butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this can make it bitter.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine with the garlic and butter. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the dry fettuccine directly to the pot. Press the pasta down gently so it is mostly submerged in the liquid. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Build the Alfredo Sauce
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has thickened into a sauce, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and black pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed.
Step 5: Add Shrimp and Crab
Return the cooked shrimp to the pot, along with the crab meat. Gently fold everything together so the seafood is evenly distributed and warmed through. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, just until heated.
Be gentle with the crab so it stays in nice pieces rather than breaking apart.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the pot from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded cheese. It melts more smoothly and creates a better sauce texture.
- Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to prevent clumping and ensure even cooking.
- Keep the heat moderate when adding cheese. High heat can cause the sauce to separate.
- Add crab at the very end to preserve its delicate texture and flavor.
- If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of warm milk to loosen it.
Flavor Variations
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Stir in a handful of spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrients.
- Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth of flavor.
- Use a blend of Parmesan and Romano cheese for a sharper, more complex taste.
Serving Suggestions
Easy One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo pairs well with simple sides that balance its richness. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent choice. Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus also complement the creamy pasta nicely.
For a complete meal, serve with warm garlic bread or a soft dinner roll to soak up any extra sauce.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed, and seafood texture may suffer.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approx. Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Values are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
FAQ About Easy One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
Can I make this recipe without crab?
Yes, you can make this dish with shrimp only if crab is unavailable or outside your budget. Simply increase the shrimp slightly or keep the amounts the same for a lighter seafood flavor.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Pre-cooked shrimp can be used, but add them at the very end along with the crab. Since they are already cooked, they only need to be warmed through to avoid becoming rubbery.
How do I keep Alfredo sauce from getting grainy?
Use low to medium heat when adding cheese and stir constantly. High heat can cause the cheese to separate, leading to a grainy texture.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, vegetables like peas, spinach, or broccoli work well. Add quick-cooking vegetables near the end so they stay tender and vibrant.
What pasta works best for this dish?
Fettuccine is traditional and holds the sauce well, but linguine or spaghetti also work. Short pasta can be used if needed, though the texture will be slightly different.
Easy One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
Equipment
- large pot or deep skillet
- wooden spoon or spatula
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- grater for cheese
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1/2 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6–8 oz crab meat (lump or claw)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining butter to the pot. Stir in garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the dry fettuccine, pressing it down so it is mostly submerged.
- Cover and cook on medium-low for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and the liquid thickens into a sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and crab meat. Cook 1–2 minutes until seafood is warmed through.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Easy One-Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is proof that a comforting, impressive meal does not have to be complicated. With simple steps, minimal cleanup, and rich seafood flavor, this recipe is perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or special occasions at home. Once you try it, it is sure to become a regular favorite in your recipe rotation.
