Crab Alfredo

Supposedly this is Red Lobster's version of Crab Alfredo. Like the last copycat recipe we tried, I've never ordered this dish, so I can't confirm how accurately it's been recreated. However, our dinner was definitely delicious.

Crab Alfredo

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon parsley (more if using fresh)
• 2 cans (6 ounces each) crab meat
• 6 ounces pasta (fettuccine or linguine), cooked and drained

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute, then add flour and stir until golden. Stir in the chicken broth and simmer until thick, and then stir in the cream. Add the Parmesan cheese and season with Old Bay Seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in parsley and crab meat and toss until coated, then add pasta and toss until fully combined.

If desired, top with additional Parmesan cheese, parsley, and/or Old Bay Seasoning and garnish with lemon wedges.

Although the recipe states to mix the pasta with the sauce (below), we prefer putting the sauce over the pasta (above). I think it looks prettier that way as well.

The crab seemed to be swallowed up in the sauce; we thought maybe using shrimp instead, or even clams, might be a good variation. What do you think?

In order to make this recipe, I needed some Old Bay Seasoning. Since I didn't have a jar of this in my cupboard, I found a recipe to create my own.

DIY Old Bay Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon celery salt
• 2 teaspoons ground bay leaves
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon red cayenne pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Combine all ingredients. Store in an airtight container.