20 Minute Crab Linguine

Name: 20 Minute Crab Linguine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: ½ pound linguine pasta; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon; 1 cup fresh lump crab meat; ¼ cup parmesan cheese; 2-3 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley; Salt and pepper to taste

by Laney Schwartz on Jul 6, 2023 (updated Aug 10, 2023) 0 comments

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with a seafood twist in this 20 Minute Crab Linguine recipe. Succulent lump crab meat mixes with al dente linguine, bathed in a buttery garlic sauce and brightened by zesty lemon. This quick and easy dish is a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Seafood linguine dishes are a classic choice when it comes to pasta. While you may often find linguine paired with clams, this dish is even better with the fresh flavor of crab! This seafood spin brings a touch of elegance and indulgence to your plate, transforming an ordinary pasta dish into an elevated seafood meal in just 20 minutes!

Crab is a great choice in this pasta dish because its delicate sweetness balances perfectly with the buttery garlic sauce, infusing every bite with a delicious flavor. The vibrant zing of fresh lemon juice adds a bright and tangy note, while the earthy richness and saltiness of Parmesan cheese give a savory layer of flavor that rounds out the dish.

The best part about this dish is how simple it is to make. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this showstopper for fancy dinner parties, or it can be enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, even a home chef can achieve restaurant-quality results!

If you love crab as much as I do, you’ll also love my Crab Fried Rice, Crab Cakes, Crab Cake Sliders or this delicious Crab Dip!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of succulent lump crab meat, buttery garlic sauce, and al dente linguine creates a balance of flavors that is decadent and simple!
With just 20 minutes of preparation, this recipe offers a quick and convenient way to indulge in a gourmet meal quickly and easily.
Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this versatile dish is an ideal choice for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

ingredients in bowls on a grey background

Linguine Pasta – Provides a satisfying and hearty base that perfectly absorbs the flavors of the sauce and complements the delicate crab meat.
Butter – Adds a luscious texture to the sauce, enhancing the overall richness and depth of flavor.
Minced Garlic – This aromatic ingredient infuses the dish with a deliciously pungent flavor, elevating the savory profile.
Lemon – Adds a refreshing and citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Fresh Lump Crab Meat – Brings a delicate sweetness and tender texture to the dish, making it the star ingredient that sets this linguine apart.
Parmesan Cheese – The nutty and savory Parmesan cheese enriches the sauce, adding depth of flavor and velvety smoothness.
Freshly Chopped Parsley – Adds a fresh and vibrant element to the dish, brightening the flavors with its garden fresh taste.
Salt & Pepper – Enhances the taste of each ingredient, bringing balance and depth to the dish.

How To Make Crab Linguine

linguine pasta drained in a strainer — Cook pasta and drain.

shallots and garlic cooking in a cast iron skillet — Sauté the butter and garlic. Add lemon juice, salt and pepper.

crab meat cooking in a cast iron skillet — Warm through the crab in the pan.

crab linguine in a cast iron skillet — Add the pasta and combine.

Cook the pasta: Add water to a large pot. Bring the water to a boil along with 2 tablespoons of salt. Add the pasta, then cook according to the package instructions for 10-12 minutes.

Make the sauce: To a large skillet, add the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir in the lump crab meat until it’s warmed through in the garlic butter sauce.

Assemble the pasta dish: Once the pasta is cooked, reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the rest. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the crab sauce and stir until well coated, adjusting the consistency with pasta water as needed.

Garnish and serve: Plate with a garnish of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley while hot. Enjoy!

Recipe Tips

When cooking the pasta, aim for al dente, which means the pasta should have a slight firmness when bitten. This will prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce later.
To easily juice a lemon, roll it firmly on a countertop before slicing and squeezing. This technique helps to release more juice.
When adding the garlic to the skillet, be mindful of the heat to avoid burning it. Cooking the garlic for just about 30 seconds until fragrant will allow it to infuse the butter with its aromatic flavor without turning bitter or overpowering the other ingredients.
Gently fold the crab meat into the sauce rather than vigorously stirring it. This will help preserve the delicate texture of the crab and prevent it from breaking apart.
If the linguine and crab mixture seems a bit dry after combining, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help loosen the sauce and create a silky coating on the linguine, ensuring every strand is evenly coated with the flavors of the dish.

Variations

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the buttery garlic sauce.
Experiment with different types of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, to switch up the texture and presentation of the dish.
Consider adding some cooked shrimp or scallops to the dish, which will contribute extra flavors and textures that complement the crab.
Adding some chopped tomatoes or roasted cherry tomatoes to the dish. The burst of juicy sweetness from the tomatoes will add a vibrant element and create a beautiful visual contrast between the pasta and crab.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, it can be refrigerated for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the pasta to help restore moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Make sure to remove any excess air and label it with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Once thawed overnight in the fridge, you can reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQ

Can I use imitation crab meat instead of fresh lump crab meat?

I don’t recommend imitation crab meat as the texture and flavor will be different.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

While it’s best to prepare the sauce fresh for optimal flavor, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on the stovetop while preparing the linguine.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free linguine pasta or any other gluten-free pasta of your choice. Ensure that the other ingredients, such as butter, garlic, lemon, crab meat, and seasonings, are all gluten-free or suitable for your dietary needs.

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