Nearly 80% of seafood enthusiasts consider crab the ultimate luxury ingredient for pasta dishes, yet few attempt these recipes at home.
You’ll discover that creating restaurant-worthy crab pasta doesn’t require professional training—just quality ingredients and simple techniques.
The sweet, delicate meat pairs beautifully with everything from rich cream sauces to bright citrus notes.
These nine recipes showcase crab’s versatility while delivering complex flavors that will transform your dinner table into a five-star dining experience.
9 Luxurious Crab Pasta Recipes That Taste Restaurant-Quality
This elegant crab pasta combines sweet lump crabmeat with a creamy garlic sauce and fresh herbs for a restaurant-worthy dish you can make at home in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 8 oz fresh lump crabmeat
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 shallot, finely diced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shallots and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter and heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Gently fold in crabmeat, lemon zest, and half the parsley. Heat through for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to break up the crab too much.
Step 5: Add drained pasta to the skillet with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss gently to coat pasta evenly with sauce.
Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve immediately, garnished with remaining parsley and chives.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 520 per serving
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
Creamy Lemon Garlic Crab Linguine With Fresh Herbs
This elegant pasta dish combines sweet crabmeat with a creamy lemon sauce and fresh herbs for a restaurant-worthy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) linguine pasta
- 1 lb (450g) fresh crab meat
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium-low, add heavy cream, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Gently fold in crab meat and cook for 2 minutes until warmed through.
Step 5: Add drained pasta to the skillet along with lemon juice, half the herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with remaining fresh herbs.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 580 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
Spicy Singaporean Chili Crab Fettuccine
This fusion dish combines the fiery flavors of Singaporean chili crab with Italian fettuccine for a luxurious seafood pasta that’s both elegant and boldly spiced.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb fresh crab meat
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 2 red chilies, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic, ginger, chilies, and onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add tomato paste and stir-fry for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium-low, add crab meat and cook for 2 minutes. Slowly pour in beaten eggs while stirring to create ribbons in the sauce.
Step 5: Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well. Drizzle with sesame oil and mix until pasta is fully coated.
Step 6: Garnish with green onions and cilantro. Serve hot with lime wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 510 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fiber: 3g
Mediterranean Crab and Roasted Red Pepper Tagliatelle
This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired tagliatelle combines sweet crab meat with smoky roasted red peppers and aromatic herbs for a light yet satisfying pasta dish perfect for summer evenings.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz tagliatelle pasta
- 8 oz fresh crab meat
- 2 roasted red peppers, sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 lemon, zested
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook tagliatelle according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Step 3: Add roasted red peppers and red pepper flakes, cooking for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Gently fold in crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much. Cook for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Step 5: Drain pasta, reserving ½ cup pasta water. Add pasta to the skillet with lemon juice, zest, and cherry tomatoes.
Step 6: Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Stir in fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper.
Step 7: Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 425 per serving
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
Saffron-Infused Crab Risotto With Green Peas
This luxurious risotto combines delicate crab meat with aromatic saffron and sweet green peas for a sophisticated yet comforting dish that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups Arborio rice
- 8 oz fresh crab meat
- 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable stock, warmed
- ½ teaspoon saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: In a small bowl, steep saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm stock for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes), then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Add rice and stir for 2 minutes until grains are coated and slightly translucent at edges.
Step 4: Pour in saffron mixture and stir until absorbed.
Step 5: Add stock one ladle at a time, stirring constantly and waiting for liquid to absorb before adding more (about 18-20 minutes total).
Step 6: When rice is almost tender, add peas and cook for 2 minutes.
Step 7: Remove from heat, stir in crab meat, butter, Parmesan, lemon juice, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Cover and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
Coconut Curry Crab Pasta With Lime and Cilantro
This vibrant pasta dish combines sweet crab meat with creamy coconut curry sauce, brightened by fresh lime and cilantro. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb fresh crab meat
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in curry powder and cook for 30 seconds to release flavors. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth, bringing to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Reduce heat and simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Gently fold in crab meat and heat through for 2 minutes, being careful not to break up the chunks.
Step 6: Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Stir in lime juice and half the cilantro.
Step 7: Serve immediately, garnished with remaining cilantro, sliced chili (if using), and lime wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 485 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
Decadent Brown Butter and Sage Crab Ravioli
This luxurious homemade ravioli combines sweet crab meat with the nutty aroma of brown butter and crisp sage leaves for an elegant pasta dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 package wonton wrappers (or fresh pasta sheets)
- 8 oz lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 12 fresh sage leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Mix crab meat, ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, Parmesan, garlic, and salt in a bowl until well combined.
Step 2: Lay out wonton wrappers and place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each. Brush edges with water, place another wrapper on top, and press to seal, removing air pockets.
Step 3: Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Cook ravioli in batches for 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.
Step 4: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat until it begins to brown and smells nutty, about 3-4 minutes. Add sage leaves and cook until crisp, about 30 seconds.
Step 5: Add cooked ravioli to the skillet, gently toss to coat in brown butter sauce. Drizzle with olive oil and season with black pepper before serving.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Serving size: 4 ravioli
Garlic Butter King Crab Scampi With Angel Hair Pasta
This luxurious crab pasta combines sweet king crab with a fragrant garlic butter sauce, all tossed with delicate angel hair pasta for an impressive yet simple dinner that’s ready in minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound king crab legs, meat removed and chopped
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook angel hair pasta according to package directions until al dente (usually 3-4 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, melt butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add chicken broth and lemon juice to the skillet, simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Gently add crab meat to the sauce, stirring carefully to warm through without breaking up the chunks, about 2 minutes.
Step 5: Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Stir in parsley and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 890mg
Crab and Asparagus Pappardelle With Lemon Cream Sauce
This elegant pasta dish combines sweet crab meat with crisp asparagus and wide pappardelle noodles, all coated in a light lemon cream sauce for a sophisticated meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pappardelle pasta
- 8 oz fresh crab meat
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pappardelle according to package directions until al dente.
Step 2: Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
Step 3: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in heavy cream, lemon zest, and half the lemon juice. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Gently fold in crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Drain pasta, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water. Add pasta to the skillet along with herbs, tossing gently. Add pasta water if needed for consistency.
Step 7: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and remaining lemon juice to taste. Serve immediately.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 440 per serving
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 310mg
Final Thoughts
With these nine elegant crab pasta creations, you’ll transform ordinary evenings into sublime culinary experiences.
The delicate sweetness of fresh crabmeat paired with perfectly al dente pasta creates harmony on your palate.
Last weekend, my Spicy Singaporean Chili Crab Fettuccine—where plump crab chunks mingled with aromatic ginger and fiery chilis—left dinner guests speechless.
Don’t just dream of restaurant-quality seafood pasta; create it in your own kitchen tonight.
