One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is a dish that combines elegance and simplicity. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress without the fuss, this dish features succulent shrimp and sweet crab meat enveloped in a creamy Alfredo sauce. The best part? It all cooks in one pot, making it easy to create and clean up afterward.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Pasta
- For the Seafood
- For the Sauce
- For Garnish
- How to Make One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Step 2: Add Broth
- Step 3: Incorporate Seafood
- Step 4: Create the Sauce
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- How to Serve One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Pair with Fresh Ingredients
- Complement with Bread
- Enhance with Salads
- Add an Extra Touch
- How to Perfect One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Best Side Dishes for One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Reheating One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of pasta for One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo?
- Is One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo suitable for meal prep?
- Can I make this dish healthier?
- How can I enhance the flavor of my One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Convenient One-Pot Cooking: All the ingredients cook together in one pot, which means less mess and fewer dishes to wash.
- Rich Flavor: The creamy Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with shrimp and crab, creating a luxurious taste experience.
- Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use any pasta of your choice or swap out seafood for chicken or vegetables based on your preferences.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish garnished with fresh parsley for a visually appealing meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo efficiently, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking. This ensures a smooth workflow and makes the cooking process enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: This is essential for cooking everything together while allowing enough space for the pasta to cook evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools help to stir the ingredients without scratching your cookware, ensuring easy mixing of flavors.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine
For the Seafood
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained and flaked
For the Sauce
- 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
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by heating olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Broth
Pour in chicken or seafood broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer before adding your pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 3: Incorporate Seafood
Once the pasta is cooked, add in the shrimp and crab meat. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Gradually mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving hot. Enjoy your One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo!
How to Serve One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Pair with Fresh Ingredients
- Lemon Wedges: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta for a zesty kick that cuts through the richness.
- Chopped Green Onions: Add a sprinkle for color and a mild onion flavor that complements the seafood.
Complement with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious Alfredo sauce.
- Crusty Baguette: A sliced baguette is perfect for dipping and adds a nice crunch to your meal.
Enhance with Salads
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing enhance the dish without overpowering it.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
Add an Extra Touch
- Parmesan Shavings: Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of freshness.

How to Perfect One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
Creating the perfect One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo requires some simple techniques. Here are tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic every time.
- Use Quality Seafood: Fresh shrimp and crab meat enhance flavor and texture, making your dish truly indulgent.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta until just al dente; it will continue cooking slightly in the sauce.
- Balance the Sauce: Adjust salt and pepper carefully; taste as you go to achieve your preferred seasoning.
- Incorporate Broth Gradually: Add broth in increments, allowing the pasta to absorb flavors fully while cooking.
Best Side Dishes for One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
Pairing One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo with complementary sides elevates your dining experience. Consider these delicious options:
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Crispy asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances the meal’s elegance.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition without overshadowing the main dish.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce perfectly.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto can be a luxurious side that matches well with seafood flavors.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a refreshing contrast.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a fun element; grill or boil for simple preparation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks may encounter challenges while preparing One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using low-quality seafood: Always opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp and crab. This ensures a more flavorful dish.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dish with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors of the shrimp, crab, and Alfredo sauce.
- Adding cream too early: Incorporate the heavy cream once the pasta is nearly done cooking. This helps achieve a rich and creamy texture without curdling.
- Neglecting to garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds a fresh flavor contrast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Place in a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion.
- Best used within 1-2 months for best quality.
Reheating One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo, here are some FAQs that might help.
Can I use other types of pasta for One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo?
Yes! While fettuccine or linguine are traditional choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping throughout your week.
Can I make this dish healthier?
Certainly! Use whole-grain pasta or substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
How can I enhance the flavor of my One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo?
Consider adding spices like red pepper flakes for heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Fresh herbs also elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Final Thoughts
One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is an indulgent yet simple meal perfect for any occasion. Its creamy sauce combined with succulent seafood makes it a hearty choice that’s sure to impress. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the types of seafood. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is a delightful fusion of seafood and creamy goodness, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner. This elegant dish features tender shrimp and sweet lump crab meat cooked together in a rich Alfredo sauce, all in one pot for minimal cleanup. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Serve garnished with fresh parsley for an eye-catching presentation that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained and flaked
- 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)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Add chicken or seafood broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Once the pasta is done, gently fold in shrimp and crab meat.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 190mg