If you’re a fan of rich, velvety sauces and the fresh taste of the ocean, this creamy seafood pasta recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings gourmet taste to your home kitchen without the hefty restaurant bill.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or planning a romantic dinner, this seafood pasta will impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make this creamy seafood pasta absolutely perfect.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Seafood Pasta
- Restaurant-quality dish at home
- Quick and easy (ready in under 40 minutes!)
- Customizable with your favorite seafood
- Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor
- Perfect for pasta lovers and seafood fans alike
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy seafood pasta recipe:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine
- Salted water for boiling
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional, or substitute with seafood broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Seafood:
- 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/2 lb scallops
- 1/2 lb calamari or white fish (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Prepare the Seafood
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil and cook the shrimp and scallops until they’re just pink—about 2 minutes per side. Set them aside. If using other seafood like calamari or fish, cook them briefly as well.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add butter and remaining olive oil. Sauté the garlic and onions until fragrant and translucent. Deglaze the pan with white wine or seafood broth and let it reduce for 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the Parmesan cheese. Add Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and seafood to the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Drizzle with lemon juice, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan doesn’t hurt!
Tips for the Best Creamy Seafood Pasta
- Use fresh or frozen seafood – Just make sure it’s thawed properly.
- Don’t overcook the seafood – It cooks quickly and can become rubbery if left too long.
- Choose the right pasta – Long pasta like linguine or fettuccine works best to hold the creamy sauce.
- Add veggies – Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms add color and nutrients.
Pairing Ideas
This dish goes great with:
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette
- A glass of chilled white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)
- A side salad with lemon vinaigrette
Why Creamy Seafood Pasta is a Go-To Comfort Dish
People love creamy seafood pasta because it’s indulgent yet elegant. The richness of the cream, the sharpness of Parmesan, and the delicate sweetness of seafood come together in perfect balance. Whether you’re craving comfort food or cooking to impress, this dish checks all the boxes.
Final Thoughts
Next time you’re craving something rich, flavorful, and satisfying, remember this seafood pasta recipe creamy and simple. It’s a delicious way to bring coastal flavors to your dinner table in less than an hour. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so you can switch up the seafood or add your own flair.