Name: Crab Newburg with Tagliatelle
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 300 g tagliatelle pasta; 2 tbsp plant-based butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup plant-based milk (e.g., oat milk); 2 tbsp sherry; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 250 g fresh lump crab meat; 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Paprika (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for garnish); Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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The first time I whipped up Crab Newburg with Tagliatelle, it felt like I had brought a coastal culinary masterpiece into my home. Honestly, the tender crab meat paired with the creamy Newburg sauce was pure magic. What I loved most was how effortless it was to make such an elegant dish.

Sitting down with a bowl of rich, velvety pasta topped with delicate crab felt both indulgent and comforting at the same time. Whether it’s a quiet dinner for two or a special occasion, this recipe is always a showstopper.

Ingredients for Creamy Perfection

Each ingredient combines to create a silky, crab-filled sauce that’s perfect for pasta.

300 grams of tagliatelle pasta (its ribbons perfectly hold the sauce).
2 tablespoons plant-based butter (adds richness to the base).
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (helps thicken the sauce).
1 cup plant-based milk, such as oat milk (creamy yet dairy-free).
2 tablespoons sherry (adds depth and a hint of sweetness).
1 tablespoon tomato paste (enhances the flavor and color).
250 grams fresh lump crab meat (sweet, delicate, and the hero of the dish).
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (for that classic seafood kick).
Salt and pepper to taste (adjust to balance flavors).
Paprika, lemon wedges, and chopped parsley for garnish.

Note: This recipe makes 2-3 servings. Increase the quantities for larger portions while keeping the same proportions for a balanced flavor.

Creative Variations to Try

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to make it your own!

Glossy Linguine: Swap tagliatelle with linguine or fettuccine for a similar luxurious texture.
Add Extra Flavor: Stir in minced garlic or a pinch of chili flakes for a punch of heat.
Sherry Substitution: No sherry on hand? Try a mix of apple cider vinegar and water for a tangy twist.

Cooking Time

Here’s how much time you’ll need to prepare this indulgent meal.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Tools You’ll Need

Ensure you have these basic tools to create a smooth cooking experience.

Large pot: For cooking the pasta to silky perfection.
Medium pot: For crafting the creamy Newburg sauce.
Whisk: To make the sauce lump-free and smooth.
Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
Tongs: For gently tossing and serving the pasta.

How to Make Crab Newburg with Tagliatelle?

This dish is as easy to prepare as it is to devour. Follow these simple steps!

Step 1: Perfectly Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and drop in the tagliatelle. Cook until al dente, as per the package instructions. Drain the pasta and drizzle with a touch of olive oil to keep it from sticking. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper for a bit of flavor.

Step 2: Craft the Newburg Sauce

Melt the plant-based butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a paste. Cook this roux for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually add the oat milk while whisking constantly to create a silky base for your sauce.

Step 3: Infuse the Sauce with Flavor

Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a light boil. Stir in the sherry, tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, and a touch of salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld together beautifully and the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Fold in the Crab Meat

Carefully add the lump crab meat to the sauce, taking care not to break it apart too much. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to warm the crab and infuse it with the luxurious flavors of the sauce. Adjust the seasoning if needed, ensuring each bite will be perfectly balanced.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish Like a Pro

Spoon the creamy sauce generously over the freshly cooked tagliatelle and toss lightly to coat the pasta. Plate the dish neatly in deep pasta bowls. Add a sprinkle of bright parsley, a dash of smoky paprika, and a fresh lemon wedge on the side to elevate the presentation and flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe Even Better

These simple tips can make a big difference in perfecting this dish!

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better when tossed in the sauce.
Fresh is Best: Opt for fresh crab meat whenever possible. If using canned, make sure to drain it thoroughly.
Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Simmer the sauce gently to prevent it from becoming too thick or losing its smooth texture.
Balance the Flavors: Taste as you go; a little lemon or pinch of extra salt can make the flavors truly sing.

How to Serve Crab Newburg with Tagliatelle?

Presentation enhances the dining experience, so serve this creamy dish in style! Use deep bowls to cradle the pasta and sauce, making sure each plate gets an ample amount of crab in the mix. Garnish with a pop of fresh parsley, a dusting of paprika, and a lemon wedge for a touch of zing. Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, for a meal that feels worthy of a special occasion.

Nutritional Information

This indulgent dish is satisfying while remaining balanced. Approximate nutrition per serving includes:

Calories: 460
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 15g

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re planning ahead or have leftovers, here’s how to save the goodness.

Prep the Sauce in Advance: Make the Newburg sauce up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring in the crab meat just before serving to retain its fresh flavor.
Store Leftovers Properly: Keep the pasta and sauce separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This Crab Newburg with Tagliatelle is worth every bite! Here’s what makes it so special:

Fast Elegance: Despite its gourmet appearance, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare.
Rich and Creamy: The silky Newburg sauce and sweet crab meat create a perfect harmony.
Customizable: Adjust the recipe to suit your taste with substitutions or extra flavors.
Great for Every Occasion: This dish fits both casual weeknights and upscale dinner parties.
A Coastal Escape: Each bite feels like dining at a seaside restaurant.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving its simple yet sophisticated flavors again and again. Indulge in the richness of creamy crab pasta and create something truly extraordinary tonight!