Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Seafood Pasta in Creamy Sauce is a luxurious, satisfying dish that brings together tender pasta and a medley of seafood in a rich, velvety cream sauce. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special family meal, this recipe balances the delicate flavors of the sea with the comforting richness of a homemade cream sauce.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fettuccine or linguinesea scallopsshrimpsquid ringsolive oilgarlicshallonswhite wineheavy creamparmesan cheeseparsleycrushed red pepper flakes (optional)saltblack pepperlemon zest
directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté the shallots and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
Add the seafood (scallops, shrimp, and squid) and cook for 2-3 minutes until just opaque. Remove and set aside.
Deglaze the skillet with white wine, letting it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens.
Return the seafood to the skillet and gently fold into the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and lemon zest.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes
Variations
Use a mix of your favorite seafood such as clams, mussels, or crab meat.
Substitute the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for color and extra flavor.
Try it with penne or tagliatelle if you prefer a different pasta shape.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.Microwaving can cause seafood to become rubbery, so stovetop reheating is preferred.
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the sauce.
What wine should I use?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prepare the sauce ahead, but cook the seafood fresh for best texture.
Is this dish spicy?
Not by default, but crushed red pepper flakes can add a mild heat.
Can I omit the wine?
Yes, replace it with seafood or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Does this freeze well?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, as cream-based sauces can separate upon freezing.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
What can I use instead of parmesan?
Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are good substitutes.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely, asparagus, peas, or mushrooms pair wonderfully.
How do I avoid overcooking seafood?
Cook just until opaque and firm, usually 2-3 minutes is enough.
Conclusion
Seafood Pasta in Creamy Sauce is an indulgent yet easy-to-make dish that elevates your weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. With its savory seafood, rich creaminess, and a hint of zest, it’s sure to become a favorite for lovers of comforting, elegant flavors.
PrintSeafood Pasta in Creamy Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and flavorful seafood pasta dish tossed in a creamy garlic sauce, perfect for a decadent dinner.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or fettuccine
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 150g scallops
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and scallops, season with salt and pepper, and cook until just opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, stir until melted and combined. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using.
- Return the seafood to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- You can substitute or add other seafood like mussels or squid.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Do not overcook the seafood to keep it tender and juicy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
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