Name: Creamy Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo You Can Make at Home
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Linguine (or fettuccine/spaghetti); 4 tbsp Butter (or olive oil for a lighter option); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (fresh is best); 2 tbsp Flour (gluten-free flour is an option); 2 cups Half and Half (heavy cream for a richer sauce); 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated melts better); 1 tsp Salt (to taste); 1 lb King Crab Legs (or lump crab meat as an alternative)

Stepping into my kitchen often feels like opening a treasure chest of beloved memories, especially when I whip up this Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo. This scrumptious dish brings the comforting, indulgent flavors of a restaurant classic right into your home, minus the hefty price tag. With its creamy sauce and succulent pieces of crab, it’s perfect for impressing guests or simply elevating a cozy night in. Plus, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—ready in just 20 minutes—making it an ideal choice for those hectic weekdays. Who says you can’t have a taste of fine dining any night of the week? Are you ready to recreate this restaurant favorite that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings?

Why Is This Recipe So Irresistible?

Simplicity at Its Best: This Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo requires just a few straightforward ingredients, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels.

Creamy & Decadent: The rich, buttery sauce paired with tender crab creates a luxurious flavor profile that rivals any restaurant dish.

Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Versatile Options: Feel free to substitute King crab legs with lump crab meat or shrimp for a delightful twist. You can also elevate your plate by adding veggies like spinach or peas!

Crowd Pleaser: Impress family and friends alike with this comforting dish that brings everyone together—for more inspired meals, don’t miss our Cucumber Salad Crab or Smothered Chicken Rice recipes!

Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo Ingredients

• Get ready to gather the necessities for an unforgettable meal!

For the Pasta

Linguine – This pasta is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce; you can easily swap it for fettuccine or spaghetti if you like.

For the Sauce

Butter – Adds rich flavor; for a lighter option, consider substituting with olive oil.
Minced Garlic – Gives aromatic depth; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Flour – Essential for thickening the sauce; you can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Half and Half – Creates a creamy base; heavy cream makes it richer, or use evaporated milk for a lighter touch.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Delivers a nutty, salty flavor; freshly grated cheese melts beautifully, but Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust it to taste based on the saltiness of your cheese.

For the Crab

King Crab Legs – The star of the dish, bringing sweet, tender meat; if unavailable, lump crab meat can be a delicious alternative.

Now, you’re all set to create your own mouthwatering Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo right at home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook according to the package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta but reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water for later use in the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Crab Legs
While the linguine cooks, reheat the king crab legs to ensure they’re warm and tender. You can either steam them on the stove for 3-5 minutes or microwave them wrapped in damp towels for 3 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as you want the meat to stay sweet and succulent.

Step 3: Extract Crab Meat
After the crab legs are heated through, carefully crack them open and extract the meat. Use kitchen scissors or a crab cracker for ease, and break the tender meat into bite-sized pieces. Set the crab meat aside, ready to incorporate into your Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo.

Step 4: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Watch for it to bubble and foam as it melts—this signifies that it’s ready for the next step. Make sure not to let it brown for this recipe; you want it to remain light and creamy.

Step 5: Sauté the Garlic
Once the butter has melted, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant and slightly softened. The goal is to infuse the butter without browning the garlic.

Step 6: Create the Roux
Next, add 2 tablespoons of flour to the skillet and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until it forms a sandy texture. This step is crucial for your sauce’s thickness. Make sure no lumps remain, as a smooth consistency is essential for your Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo.

Step 7: Make the Creamy Sauce
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of half and half, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently. This should take about 3-4 minutes. You’re looking for a creamy sauce that coats the back of a spoon, ensuring it’s rich and velvety.

Step 8: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Once thickened, lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt to taste. Continue to simmer for a few minutes until the cheese has melted completely and is well incorporated, creating a beautifully blended sauce for your Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo.

Step 9: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Carefully add the drained linguine to the skillet, tossing it gently to ensure each strand is coated with the creamy sauce. If the mixture appears too thick, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. This creates a cohesive and luscious dish.

Step 10: Incorporate the Crab
Finally, add the tender crab meat to the skillet, gently folding it into the pasta and sauce. Heat for an additional minute just to warm the crab through, ensuring it maintains its delicate texture without overcooking.

Step 11: Serve Your Dish
Spoon the decadent Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo onto plates or into bowls. For an extra touch, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. This finishing touch elevates your dish, making it perfect for both a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests.

What to Serve with Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo

Elevate your dining experience by pairing with delicious sides that perfectly complement this creamy seafood delight.

Garlic Bread: This classic side adds a warm, crunchy texture that’s perfect for soaking up the rich Alfredo sauce. It makes every bite even more enjoyable!
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and savory Parmesan create a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the dish. Plus, a light dressing enhances all the flavors beautifully.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted spears add a vibrant green touch with a slight crunch, adding both flavor and nutrition to your meal.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright and nutritious, steamed broccoli offers a great balance with its mild flavor against the rich crab Alfredo.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal, with its crisp notes cutting through the creaminess beautifully.
Mango Sorbet: For dessert, consider a light mango sorbet. Its refreshing sweetness will cleanse your palate after the indulgent main course, leaving you satisfied and happy.

Make Ahead Options

This Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the creamy sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cook the linguine ahead of time as well, but be sure to toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. When it’s time to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, adding a splash of half and half for creaminess, and mix in the crab meat. Cooked pasta can be added directly into the heated sauce, ensuring a deliciously fresh dish with minimal effort.

Storage Tips for Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps maintain freshness and prevent contamination.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of cream or pasta water to restore creaminess.

Avoid Overcooking: Be cautious when reheating; overcooking can lead to tough crab meat, reminding you to maintain that delightful texture from the original Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo.

Tips for the Best Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo

Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh crab meat and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in your Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo.

Watch the Heat: Overcooking crab legs leads to rubbery meat. Gently heat them just until warmed through to maintain their tenderness.

Perfect Pasta: Cook linguine until al dente for the best texture. Remember to reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.

Add Flavor Gradually: When making your sauce, whisk in the half and half gradually. This helps avoid lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.

Customize It: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition and color in your Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo.

Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own! Embrace the creativity of cooking with these delightful twists.

Seafood Swap: Replace king crab legs with lump crab meat or shrimp for a delicious seafood alternative. Each option brings its own unique flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning to the sauce for some heat. This spicy twist will excite your taste buds!
Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach or peas for a pop of color and added nutrition. Not only do they enhance the dish visually, but they also add a lovely burst of freshness.
Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of half and half, and a non-dairy cheese alternative. This keeps the creamy goodness while catering to dietary preferences.
Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap linguine for whole wheat pasta to add extra fiber and nutrients. This small change can make a big difference in your meal’s health profile!
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic lift. Fresh herbs brighten the dish and make it even more inviting.
Lemon Zing: Squeeze in some lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor profile. The acidity cuts through the creaminess, making each bite refreshing.

For more inspiration, why not try this alongside a refreshing Cucumber Salad Crab or pair it with creamy Smothered Chicken Rice? Enjoy experimenting!

Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best crab legs?
Absolutely! When selecting crab legs, look for ones that have a fresh sea aroma. Avoid legs that have dark spots or strong odors. If possible, choose king crab legs for their sweet and tender meat—they’re the star of this Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo!

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing. Gently reheating on the stove will help to maintain the dish’s creamy texture.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze your Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo for up to 3 months! Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring there’s enough space for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore its creaminess.

What if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, simply add a little of the reserved pasta water—just a tablespoon at a time—while stirring over low heat. This will help to loosen the sauce without sacrificing the creamy consistency of your Copycat Red Lobster Crab Alfredo.

Are there any dietary considerations?
Very much so! This dish contains shellfish and dairy, so be cautious when serving those with shellfish allergies or lactose intolerance. You can use gluten-free flour and substitute with non-dairy milk alternatives for those needing gluten or dairy-free options. Always ask guests about their dietary restrictions before serving!