One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender shrimp, sweet crab, and rich Alfredo sauce all cooked in one pan. The pasta soaks up all those delicious flavors, making every bite smooth and satisfying. It’s a wonderful mix of seafood and cheesy goodness that’s perfect when you want a special meal without a lot of fuss.
I love making this dish because everything comes together in a single pot, which means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying the meal. The shrimp cook quickly and the crab adds a nice touch of sweetness that balances the richness of the sauce. I usually add a little garlic and some fresh parsley on top to brighten it up—I find it adds just the right fresh pop to each bite.
This Alfredo is a great go-to for a cozy dinner at home or when friends come over. I like to serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce and a simple green salad for a little crunch. It’s one of those meals that feels a bit fancy but isn’t complicated to make, and that’s why it’s always a hit in my house.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well. I prefer peeled and deveined shrimp for quick cooking and easy eating. If you’re allergic, you can swap shrimp for cooked chicken or scallops.
Crab Meat: Lump crab adds a sweet, delicate flavor. If fresh crab isn’t available, canned crab meat is a good fallback. Avoid imitation crab for best taste and texture.
Pasta: Egg noodles or fettuccine hold the creamy sauce nicely. If gluten-free is needed, try a gluten-free pasta that cooks similarly to regular pasta.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: They create the rich Alfredo sauce. For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated, in my experience.
How Do I Get the Pasta Perfectly Cooked in One Pot?
Cooking pasta right in the sauce can feel tricky but here’s how to nail it:
- Use enough liquid to cover the pasta completely so it cooks evenly.
- Stir often to stop noodles from sticking to the pan or each other.
- Keep heat at a gentle simmer to avoid drying out the sauce before pasta cooks.
- Check pasta doneness at about 8 minutes and continue cooking until just tender, but still with a bit of bite (al dente).
- If the sauce feels too thick near the end, stir in a little extra broth or cream to loosen it up.
Following these tips keeps your noodles creamy and soft without overcooking or drying out the dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan – great for cooking everything in one pot without spills.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps you stir the pasta gently without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your sauce and seasonings balanced.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for mincing garlic and prepping any fresh herbs.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap crab for cooked lobster meat for a richer, more indulgent seafood twist.
- Add sautéed spinach or kale for a pop of green and added nutrients.
- Use Italian sausage instead of seafood for a meatier, spicier version.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.
How to Make One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz egg noodles or fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional for garnish)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal comes together in about 25-30 minutes. It only takes a few minutes to sauté the shrimp and garlic, about 10 minutes to cook the pasta in the sauce, and a little time to combine everything for a creamy finish. Perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and half of the Old Bay seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Prepare Sauce:
In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook the Pasta:
Add the uncooked pasta to the pan, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be tender but still have a little bite, and most of the liquid will be absorbed by then.
4. Finish the Alfredo Sauce:
Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
5. Combine Seafood and Serve:
Gently fold the cooked shrimp and the lump crab meat into the sauce. Warm the seafood through for 2-3 minutes without overcooking. Taste and add salt, pepper, and the rest of the Old Bay seasoning as needed. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and a light dusting of smoked paprika for color and extra flavor. Serve your delicious Alfredo immediately!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp and Crab for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. For shrimp, thaw overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water. For crab, thaw in the fridge or gently at room temperature. Pat dry to remove excess moisture before adding to the pan.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?
You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream for a lighter sauce, but the Alfredo will be less rich and creamy. To prevent curdling, heat gently and avoid boiling once dairy is added.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the base sauce and cook the pasta ahead, then add the seafood just before serving to avoid overcooking. Reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy and the seafood tender.
