Craving that incredible seafood pasta you get at your favorite Italian spot, but don’t want to break the bank? You’ve come to the right place! We’re about to show you how to whip up a mouth-watering Seafood Pasta Shrimp & Scallops right in your kitchen. This isn’t just any pasta dish; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring succulent shrimp and tender, perfectly seared scallops, all tossed in a luscious sauce that will have you licking your plate clean.

Why You’ll Love This Restaurant-Quality Seafood Pasta Shrimp & Scallops

Let’s be honest, there’s something incredibly satisfying about a well-made seafood pasta. The moment you take that first bite of this dish, you’ll be hit with the sweet, delicate taste of perfectly cooked shrimp and scallops, complemented by a rich, savory sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. It’s a comforting yet elegant meal that feels special without being overly complicated.

The texture? Picture tender, succulent shrimp with a satisfying snap, perfectly paired with rich, buttery scallops that melt effortlessly on your tongue. All of this is balanced by al dente pasta – that’s pasta that’s cooked just right, with a pleasant chew. The sauce brings everything together with its rich creaminess, a hint of tang, and layers of irresistible flavor in every bite.

Dietary Considerations: While this particular recipe focuses on a classic seafood pasta, it’s surprisingly versatile.

• Gluten-Free: Easily swap out traditional pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. The sauce and seafood are naturally gluten-free!
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, you can substitute heavy cream with a full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just be mindful of the flavor profile, as coconut milk will add a subtle sweetness. You can also skip the cheese entirely or use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
• Keto/Low-Carb: While pasta is out for strict keto, you could enjoy the shrimp and scallop sauce over zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for a delicious low-carb alternative.

And the best part? Though it looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality dish, this Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Scallops is surprisingly quick and simple to prepare at home. We’re talking about a meal that comes together in less than 45 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a fantastic dish that brings a taste of the coastal American dining experience right to your table, perfect for any season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward a smooth and successful cooking experience! We’ve broken it down into the main stars and some fantastic supporting roles.

Main Ingredients

• 🍝 1 pound linguine or fettuccine: While these are classics, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
• 🍤 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off: Look for fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking.
• 🐚 12 ounces large sea scallops, patted very dry: Patting them dry is key for a good sear!
• 🧈 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: For richness and searing.
• 🫒 2 tablespoons olive oil: To help with searing and flavor.
• 🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic makes all the difference!
• 🥛 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy sauce.
• 🧀 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is always best.
• 🌿 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh, vibrant finish.
• 🌶️ 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick!
• 🧂 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• 🍋 Lemon wedges, for serving: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens everything up.

Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes

• 🍅 Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and color. Add them in with the garlic.
• 🍃 Spinach: A handful of fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the sauce, adding extra nutrients and a touch of green. Add it in at the very end.
• 🌿 Artichoke Hearts: Canned or jarred hearts (drained and chopped) can add a lovely tangy element.
• 🥦 Asparagus: Blanched asparagus spears or chopped pieces can be added with the pasta for a pop of color and freshness. florets: Steamed or lightly sautéed broccoli florets are a great addition for extra veggies.
• 🍄 Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms can be sautéed with the garlic for an earthy flavor.
• 🫒 Olives: Sliced Kalamata or green olives can introduce a briny, savory note. Add them with the tomatoes.
• ☀️ Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed, finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes offer an intense, sweet-tart flavor. Stir them in with the garlic and tomatoes.
• 🍋 Lemon Zest: A grating of fresh lemon zest at the end brightens the entire dish with a fragrant citrus aroma.
• 💮 Capers: These small, briny flower buds provide a piquant burst of flavor. Add them in the last few minutes of cooking.
• 🌶️ Roasted Red Peppers: Jarred roasted red peppers, sliced or chopped, add a sweet and smoky depth. Stir them in with the tomatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions

This is where the magic happens! Follow these steps carefully for a perfect Seafood Pasta Shrimp & Scallops every time.

Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings

• ⏱️ Prep Time: 20 minutes
• 🍳 Cook Time: 25 minutes
• 🍽️ Servings: 4–6

Instructions

1. Get Your Pasta Ready: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your linguine or fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This starchy water is your secret weapon for a perfectly smooth sauce! Drain the pasta and set aside.

1. Kitchen Hack: Always salt your pasta water generously! It’s the only chance you have to season the pasta itself, and it makes a huge difference in the final taste. Think of it like cooking in the ocean!
2. Prep Your Seafood: While the pasta is cooking, make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. For the scallops, the most crucial step is to pat them bone dry with paper towels. Seriously, this cannot be stressed enough! Any moisture on the surface will prevent them from getting that beautiful golden-brown sear. Season both the shrimp and scallops lightly with salt and pepper.

1. Sear the Scallops: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the butter is foamy and shimmering, carefully add the scallops in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 1.5 to 2 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and caramelized. Transfer the scallops from the pan to a plate and set them aside. They will finish cooking with the sauce.

1. Cooking Tip: If your pan isn’t big enough to cook all the scallops in a single layer, cook them in batches. Overcrowding the pan will steam the scallops instead of searing them, and you won’t get that delicious crust.
2. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until they’re pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook they can turn rubbery fast. Once done, transfer the shrimp to the plate with the scallops and set aside.

1. Build the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Don’t let it burn!
   • Cooking Tip: If your pan looks a little “dry” from cooking the seafood, add another half tablespoon of butter or olive oil before adding the garlic.
2. Deglaze and Add Cream: Pour in the white wine (or broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. These bits are full of flavor! Let the wine simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing some of the alcohol to evaporate. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
3. Combine and Thicken: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop rich, layered flavor. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of your reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
   • Kitchen Hack: The starchy pasta water contains starches that help emulsify and thicken your sauce, making it incredibly silky and ensuring it clings beautifully to the pasta.

1. Add Pasta and Seafood: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, stirring until it’s fully coated. Then, gently fold in the cooked shrimp and scallops. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to warm everything through.
2. Finish and Serve: Stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately, finishing each plate with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice. Enjoy your restaurant-quality Seafood Pasta with Shrimp & Scallops!

Expert Tips for Perfect Seafood Pasta Shrimp & Scallops

Achieving that perfect restaurant-quality dish at home is all about the details. Here are some pro tips to elevate your Seafood Pasta (Shrimp & Scallops):

• Don’t Overcook Your Seafood: This is the golden rule! Shrimp and scallops cook very quickly. Overcooked seafood becomes tough and rubbery. Remove them from the pan just as they turn opaque – they’ll continue to cook slightly when added back to the hot sauce.
• Pat Scallops Dry! Seriously!: We mentioned it before, but it bears repeating. Moisture on scallops prevents a good sear, leading to steamed, bland scallops instead of beautifully caramelized ones.
• Use Fresh, High-Quality Seafood: The fresher the seafood, the better your dish will taste. If using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking.
• Freshly Grate Your Parmesan: Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty. Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and adds a superior flavor.
• Don’t Skimp on the Pasta Water: That starchy liquid is pure gold. It helps thicken and emulsify your sauce, making it silky smooth and ensuring it clings beautifully to your pasta.
• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is personal. Taste your sauce as you build it and adjust salt and pepper to your preference. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten all the flavors.
• Consider a Wide, Shallow Pan: A large skillet or Dutch oven with plenty of surface area is ideal for searing seafood without overcrowding. This allows for better browning.

Tools & Gadgets That Help:

• Large, Heavy-Bottomed Skillet or Dutch Oven: Essential for even heat distribution and searing.
• Tongs: Great for flipping shrimp and scallops and tossing pasta.
• Whisk: For ensuring a smooth sauce.
• Citrus Juicer: To easily get that fresh lemon juice. You can find excellent quality stainless steel juicers on Amazon.
• Microplane Grater: For fine grating of Parmesan cheese. Check out some highly-rated options at Williams Sonoma.

What to Serve with “Seafood Pasta Shrimp & Scallops”

This Seafood Pasta (Shrimp & Scallops) is a hearty and flavorful meal on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can turn it into an unforgettable dining experience.

Side Dishes:

• Crusty Garlic Bread or Focaccia: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible sauce. You can easily make your own or pick up a fresh loaf from your local bakery.
• Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon-herb vinaigrette.
• Steamed Asparagus or Broccolini: Lightly steamed or roasted vegetables are a great way to add more nutrients and color to your plate without overpowering the main dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Consider roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for a delicious and easy side.

Desserts:

• Light Fruit Tart: Something fresh and not too heavy, like a berry tart, would be a delightful end to the meal.
• Panna Cotta: This classic Italian dessert—light, creamy, and silky—paired with a vibrant berry coulis makes the perfect elegant finish to your meal.
• Sorbet or Gelato: A scoop of lemon sorbet or a light fruit gelato would be a refreshing palate cleanser.

FAQs About Seafood Pasta Shrimp & Scallops

Got questions about this amazing dish? We’ve got answers!

Can I make this ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can do some prep work ahead of time. You can peel and devein the shrimp, pat the scallops dry, and mince the garlic beforehand to save time and streamline your cooking process. Store them separately in the refrigerator. The sauce itself is best made just before serving to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from becoming too thick or separating.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Seafood Pasta Shrimp & Scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Freezing seafood pasta, especially with a cream sauce, is generally not recommended. The cream sauce can sometimes separate or become grainy upon thawing, and the seafood can become tough. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.

What kind of pasta is best for this recipe?

Long pasta shapes like linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are traditionally used for seafood pasta as they allow the creamy sauce to cling beautifully to each strand. However, you can use other shapes like penne or rigatoni if that’s what you have on hand or prefer.

My scallops didn’t sear well. What went wrong?

The most common reasons for scallops not searing properly are:

1. They weren’t dry enough: Always pat them thoroughly dry!
2. The pan wasn’t hot enough: Make sure your skillet is properly heated before adding the scallops.
3. The pan was overcrowded: Cook scallops in batches if necessary to ensure even searing and prevent steaming.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

While you can use pre-cooked shrimp, it’s not recommended for this recipe. Pre-cooked shrimp will become rubbery if heated too long. If you must use them, add them in at the very end with the cooked pasta, just to warm through. For the best flavor and texture, fresh or frozen raw shrimp are always preferred.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! Your very own guide to creating a truly spectacular, restaurant-quality Seafood Pasta Shrimp & Scallops right in the comfort of your home. This dish proves that you don’t need fancy culinary skills or expensive ingredients to create something truly delicious and impressive. It’s a meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in, a celebratory dinner, or simply when you’re craving something comforting and elegant.

We truly hope you give this recipe a try. When you do, we’d love to hear about it! Please come back and leave a comment below to let us know how it turned out. And if you snap a picture, be sure to share it on social media and tag us using #OurSeafoodPasta. Happy cooking!