This Seafood Alfredo Pasta is a creamy delight packed with shrimp and scallops, all tossed with fettuccine. It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds!
Every bite is filled with cheesy goodness! I love how quick it is to whip up, so I can enjoy a fancy meal without the fuss. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This wide noodle is perfect for holding all the creamy sauce. If you’re out of fettuccine, any long pasta like linguine or spaghetti will work just fine!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star here! If you’re allergic or need something different, you can use chicken, crab meat, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Sea Scallops: These add a sweet, delicate flavor, but you can skip them or add more shrimp if you prefer. Fresh or frozen works well for both shrimp and scallops!
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be a good substitute, but the sauce might be less thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, look for Pecorino Romano or even a vegan Parmesan alternative based on your dietary needs.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The cream and cheese combination is crucial for that smooth Alfredo sauce. Here are tips for achieving the right consistency:
- Start with medium heat when adding the cream to avoid scorching it.
- Stir constantly to prevent lumps and ensure the cheese melts evenly.
- If the sauce gets too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water. This will help loosen it without losing flavor.
- Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving! You might want more salt or pepper.
Following these tips will help you create a luscious Seafood Alfredo Pasta that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Seafood Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
For the Seafood:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb sea scallops (optional, can substitute extra shrimp)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, adds color and slight acidity)
- Toasted garlic bread or breadsticks (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious meal that feels fancy without requiring too much time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the drained pasta aside.
2. Preparing the Seafood:
While the pasta is cooking, pat the shrimp and scallops dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper. This will help enhance their natural flavors when cooked.
3. Cooking the Seafood:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the shrimp and scallops, cooking them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are just cooked through and opaque. Once they are done, carefully remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add in the minced garlic, stirring and sautéing it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not burned.
5. Combining the Cream:
Pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
6. Adding the Cheese:
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Final Seasoning:
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes for a little kick. If you like, toss in the diced tomatoes for added color and flavor!
8. Bringing It Together:
Now, return the cooked shrimp and scallops to the skillet, gently tossing them to coat in the sauce. Then, add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated with the delicious creamy sauce.
9. Garnishing and Serving:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve your Seafood Alfredo Pasta hot, alongside toasted garlic bread or breadsticks for a complete meal!
Enjoy this rich and luxurious seafood Alfredo pasta, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home!
Can I Use Frozen Seafood?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp and scallops! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge or under cold running water before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in your sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe! Use a dairy-free cream alternative like cashew cream or coconut cream. For the cheese, look for dairy-free Parmesan-style options. Keep in mind the flavor profile may differ slightly but will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Add them when sautéing the garlic to ensure they cook down nicely.