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–+ servings
Crab Pasta Bake

Creamy Crab Pasta Bake: Cozy Comfort Food Made Easy

This Crab Pasta Bake features creamy Alfredo and tender pasta, delivering a cozy and indulgent meal that impresses family and friends.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 ounces Pasta Shells Penne or rigatoni can also be used.
  • 1 can Lump Crab Meat Imitation crab can be used as a budget option.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Vital for sautéing garlic.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
  • 1 jar Alfredo Sauce Store-bought or homemade.
For the Cheesy Top
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Generously topping it enhances cheesy appeal.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Can be swapped for Pecorino Romano.
For the Finish
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (chopped) Substitute with chives or green onions if desired.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional for a spicy kick.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Large pot
  • medium skillet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Directions
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta shells in boiling salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain.
  3. Melt unsalted butter in a skillet and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Fold in lump crab meat, warming it gently for 2-3 minutes.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, cheeses, and parsley; season with salt and pepper.
  6. Gently fold in warmed crab mixture, then transfer to the baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top if desired.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  9. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving, garnishing with parsley and crushed red pepper if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure crab meat is shell-free for the best texture. This dish can be prepped ahead and refrigerated before baking.

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