If you’re craving a rich, restaurant-quality dish with the taste of the sea, Seafood Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food. This creamy, dreamy pasta dish combines tender shrimp, scallops, and sometimes crab with a luscious Alfredo sauce over fettuccine or linguine. It’s a luxurious yet surprisingly simple recipe that you can whip up at home in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or just want to treat yourself, this seafood Alfredo recipe will transport you straight to the coast—no passport required.
Why You’ll Love This Seafood Alfredo
Seafood Alfredo is a go-to for seafood lovers. It’s:
- Rich and indulgent: The Alfredo sauce is made from butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan.
- Customizable: Use whatever seafood you have—shrimp, scallops, crab, even lobster tails.
- Quick to prepare: Ready in 30 minutes or less.
- Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Plus, it’s one of those dishes that feels fancy without requiring complicated techniques.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this classic seafood Alfredo, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg for extra depth
For the Seafood:
- ½ pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ pound sea scallops, patted dry
- Optional: ½ cup lump crab meat or lobster chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for sautéing
Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine
- Salted water for boiling
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the pasta:
Boil water in a large pot. Add a generous amount of salt and cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the seafood:
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter. Add shrimp and scallops. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, until opaque and slightly golden. Remove and set aside. If you’re using crab or lobster, gently warm it through in the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, stirring gently. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, then slowly whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
4. Combine it all:
Return the cooked seafood to the sauce. Add in the drained pasta and toss to coat everything evenly. Let it heat through for 1–2 minutes.
5. Garnish and serve:
Top with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with warm bread or a crisp green salad.
Tips for the Best Seafood Alfredo
- Use fresh or high-quality frozen seafood. Thaw frozen seafood completely and pat it dry to avoid watering down your sauce.
- Don’t overcook the seafood. Shrimp and scallops cook quickly—watch closely to keep them tender.
- Grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded Parmesan doesn’t melt as well and may make your sauce grainy.
Variations to Try
Want to make it your own? Here are some popular twists:
- Add mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost.
- Try blackened shrimp for a Cajun-style Alfredo.
- Use zoodles or gluten-free pasta for a lighter or gluten-free version.
Pairing Ideas
- Drink: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.
- Side: Garlic bread or Caesar salad is a classic combo.
Final Thoughts
Seafood Alfredo is one of those recipes that looks and tastes like a restaurant dish but is surprisingly easy to make at home. The creamy Parmesan sauce and tender seafood make it a standout for weeknights or special occasions alike.
So next time you’re browsing for a “seafood Alfredo recipe” or searching “how to make Alfredo with shrimp and scallops,” save this one. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you.