One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is a delightful dish that combines the richness of creamy Alfredo sauce with tender shrimp and crab, all in one convenient pot. Perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners, this recipe offers a luxurious dining experience without the fuss. The best part? It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks who want to impress family and friends.

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 Seasoning and Garnish
- How to Make One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Step 2: Sauté the Seafood
- Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- Step 4: Combine Everything
- Step 5: Serve
- How to Serve One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Family Style
- Individual Bowls
- With a Side Salad
- Garlic Bread
- Wine Pairing
- Lemon Wedges
- 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 frozen shrimp and crab?
- How can I customize One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo?
- What side dishes pair well with this meal?
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic nights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot means minimal cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal more.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of shrimp, crab, and creamy Alfredo sauce creates a satisfying flavor profile that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: Pair it with a salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
- Perfectly Indulgent: Treat yourself or impress guests with a meal that feels both fancy and comforting.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen essentials. Having the right tools not only makes cooking easier but also enhances your overall experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking pasta and combining all ingredients evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring the sauce without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent results.
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
For Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt to taste, then add the fettuccine or linguine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Seafood
In the same pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Gently fold in the lump crab meat.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Pour in 2 cups of chicken or seafood broth along with 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring to a low simmer.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta back into the pot along with 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo!
How to Serve One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this already indulgent meal.
Family Style
- Serve the pasta directly from the pot at the table for a casual, family-style meal. This approach encourages everyone to dig in together.
Individual Bowls
- For a more elegant presentation, plate individual servings in bowls. This allows for garnishing with extra parsley and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
With a Side Salad
- Pair your Alfredo with a fresh side salad. A light Caesar or mixed greens salad adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
Garlic Bread
- Accompany your meal with warm garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky flavors complement the richness of the shrimp and crab Alfredo beautifully.
Wine Pairing
- Consider serving a chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. These wines enhance the seafood flavors in your dish.
Lemon Wedges
- Adding lemon wedges on the side provides an option for guests who enjoy a zesty kick with their seafood pasta.

How to Perfect One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
Achieving the perfect One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time.
- Use fresh seafood – Fresh shrimp and crab meat will elevate the flavor profile of your dish compared to frozen options.
- Don’t overcook pasta – Cook your fettuccine or linguine al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Season generously – Taste your broth before adding salt; you want a well-seasoned base for maximum flavor.
- Add cheese gradually – Stir in Parmesan cheese slowly to ensure it melts evenly into the sauce without clumping.
- Garnish thoughtfully – Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!
- Adjust creaminess – If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or add more broth as needed.
Best Side Dishes for One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
To round out your meal, consider serving these delicious side dishes alongside your One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo. Each side pairs wonderfully with this rich pasta dish.
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh, crunchy texture that balances out the creamy Alfredo.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts bring earthiness and depth to your meal, making it even more satisfying.
- Caprese Salad – This classic salad featuring tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella offers bright flavors that contrast nicely with the rich pasta.
- Zucchini Noodles – For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini can serve as an additional vegetable component alongside the main dish.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements seafood beautifully; grill or boil it for an easy side that everyone loves.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs makes for a delightful companion that soaks up any extra sauce from the pasta.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair well with seafood dishes like shrimp and crab Alfredo.
- Mixed Vegetable Medley – A colorful assortment of sautéed seasonal vegetables adds nutrition and aesthetic appeal to your dinner table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is a delightful dish, but there are some common errors that can affect the final result. Here are mistakes to watch out for:
- Using the wrong pasta – Not all pasta types work well in this dish. Stick to fettuccine or linguine for the best texture.
- Skipping the broth – Using only water instead of broth will lead to bland flavors. Always use chicken or seafood broth for rich taste.
- Overcooking seafood – Cooking shrimp and crab too long can leave them tough. Aim for just until they’re cooked through for tenderness.
- Not seasoning properly – Failing to season with salt and pepper can dull flavors. Taste as you go and adjust to elevate your dish.
- Neglecting fresh herbs – Garnishing with fresh parsley adds brightness. Don’t skip this step; it enhances both flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop – Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, and stir until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions readers have about One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo:
Can I use frozen shrimp and crab?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
How can I customize One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrients. You can also spice it up with red pepper flakes.
What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Consider serving garlic bread or a fresh salad alongside your One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo to complete your meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep ingredients ahead of time. Just cook it close to serving time for optimal flavor.
Final Thoughts
One Pot Shrimp and Crab Alfredo is not just easy; it’s also incredibly satisfying. Its creamy richness makes it perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or veggies. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple yet luxurious it is!
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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 luxurious yet easy-to-make seafood pasta dish that combines the rich creaminess of Alfredo sauce with succulent shrimp and tender crab meat. Perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings—this one-pot wonder allows you to create a gourmet meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup. In just 30 minutes, you can indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy goodness that will impress family and friends alike. Elevate your dining experience by pairing it with a fresh salad or warm garlic bread, making it a satisfying choice for seafood lovers.
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
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add shrimp and cook until pink (approximately 3-4 minutes). Fold in crab meat gently.
- Pour in broth and heavy cream; stir to combine and bring to a low simmer.
- Add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese to the pot, stirring until cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 615
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1030mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 150mg





