Creamy Imitation Crab Penne
This delightful creamy pasta dish showcases the best of flavors, combining the richness of a homemade white sauce with the mildness of imitation crabmeat. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant occasion, this recipe invites a variety of flavors, allowing for customization to suit your taste preferences. With its easy prep and creamy consistency, Creamy Imitation Crab Penne becomes a go-to favorite for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. Sprinkle with fresh herbs to elevate both flavor and presentation.
2
Servings
300
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Penne pasta
8 ounces (Clean and measure)
Butter
2 tablespoons (Melt in a saucepan)
Onion
1 small (Finely chopped)
Flour
2 tablespoons (For thickening the sauce)
Clam juice
8 ounces (Prepare for sauce base)
Half-and-half cream
1 cup (Measure out)
Garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon (For seasoning)
Imitation crabmeat
1 cup (Cut into bite-size pieces)
Cilantro or parsley
To taste (Chopped for garnish (optional))
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
2
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, watching closely to prevent burning.
3
Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
4
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk vigorously, cooking for 1 minute to form a roux.
5
Slowly pour in the clam juice and half-and-half, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
6
Add garlic powder and bring the sauce to a gentle boil while stirring continuously. This will help thicken the sauce.
7
Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot. Pour the creamy sauce over the pasta.
8
Gently fold in the imitation crabmeat, ensuring it is well mixed with the pasta and sauce.
9
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
Nutrition Information
12.5g
Fat
32.5g
Carbs
12.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Imitation Crab Penne?
It is a delightful creamy pasta dish that combines a homemade white sauce with mild imitation crabmeat, perfect for quick dinners or special occasions.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This specific recipe is designed to serve 2 people.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving of this Creamy Imitation Crab Penne contains approximately 300 calories.
Can I use real crab instead of imitation crab?
Yes, you can substitute real crabmeat for the imitation crab if you prefer a more authentic seafood flavor.
What type of pasta is recommended for this dish?
The recipe calls for penne pasta, but you can use other shapes like rotini or bow tie if desired.
How long should I cook the onion?
The onion should be sautéed for about 5 minutes or until it becomes soft and translucent.
What is the purpose of the flour in this recipe?
Flour is used to create a roux with the butter, which acts as a thickening agent for the creamy sauce.
Can I substitute the clam juice?
While clam juice provides a seafood base, you could substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth, though the flavor profile will change.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 12.5g of fat.
Is half-and-half necessary for the sauce?
Half-and-half provides a rich, creamy consistency. You can use heavy cream for more richness or whole milk for a lighter version.
What garnish is recommended?
Freshly chopped cilantro or parsley is recommended to elevate both the flavor and presentation.
How much protein is in this dish?
There are 12.5g of protein per serving in this recipe.
How do I prevent the butter from burning?
Melt the butter over medium heat and watch it closely to ensure it doesn't brown or burn.
What is the carbohydrate count?
Each serving contains 32.5g of carbohydrates.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, with its straightforward instructions and simple prep, it is considered an easy recipe for most home cooks.
Can I use fresh garlic?
While the recipe calls for garlic powder, you can certainly use minced fresh garlic sautéed with the onions for extra flavor.
How should the imitation crab be prepared?
The imitation crabmeat should be cut into bite-size pieces before being folded into the pasta.
Can I add cheese to the sauce?
Yes, adding Parmesan or Pecorino Romano would complement the white sauce and seafood well.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight meal?
Absolutely, it is categorized as a 'quick meal' and is designed for easy preparation.
What does 'al dente' mean for the pasta?
Al dente means cooking the pasta so that it is still firm to the bite, rather than completely soft.
What kind of onion should I use?
A small yellow or white onion works best for its mild flavor when sautéed.
Does this dish contain fiber?
Based on the nutritional data provided, the fiber content is negligible.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the roux to give the dish a kick.
How do I ensure the sauce is smooth?
Whisk the clam juice and half-and-half slowly into the flour and butter mixture to avoid lumps.
Can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, the creamy sauce and pasta combination make it a classic comfort food dish.
What is the total ingredient count?
The recipe requires 9 main ingredients.
How do I thicken the sauce if it's too thin?
Bring the sauce to a gentle boil while stirring continuously; this activates the roux and thickens the mixture.
Can I use whole wheat penne?
Yes, whole wheat penne can be used for added fiber, though it will change the texture slightly.
When should I add the crabmeat?
Gently fold in the imitation crabmeat at the very end after the pasta has been coated in the sauce.