This creamy Seafood Alfredo Pasta is a delicious mix of tender pasta, shrimp, and scallops, all wrapped up in a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress without a lot of fuss!
If you’re like me, you’ll find it hard to resist the creamy goodness. I love making this on a cozy night in, paired with a side salad to balance out all that yummy sauce. 🥗🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This wide pasta is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. If you’d like, you can swap it for tagliatelle or even penne for a different texture!
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp adds sweetness and texture. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp works well too – just thaw and pat dry before cooking. You could also use another seafood, like crab or lobster, for a twist.
Sea Scallops: Scallops bring a wonderful flavor. If they’re unavailable, you can leave them out or use more shrimp. Just make sure whatever you use is fresh for the best taste!
Heavy Cream and Whole Milk: These create a rich, creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can swap with half-and-half or use a plant-based milk like oat milk, but the sauce may be thinner.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast could give a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Create the Perfect Creamy Alfredo Sauce?
Making a creamy Alfredo sauce is all about timing and the right ingredients. Here are some important steps to get it just right:
- Use medium heat to prevent the cream from boiling over. This helps keep the texture smooth.
- After adding the cream and milk to the skillet, stir frequently until it gently simmers. This helps blend all the flavors together.
- When you add the Parmesan, whisk it slowly into the sauce to avoid clumping. It should melt smoothly into the mix.
- If your sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Taking your time with the sauce will reward you with a beautiful and rich flavor that clings perfectly to the pasta!
Seafood Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz sea scallops, cleaned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Seafood Alfredo Pasta recipe will take about 30 minutes total, with approximately 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels a little fancy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the fettuccine pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Sauté the Seafood:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and scallops to the skillet. Season them with a little salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Then, remove the seafood from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
Lower the heat to medium. Add the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk into the skillet. Stir frequently and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens!
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thick. You’ll want to keep stirring to help it melt evenly. Season to taste with additional salt and black pepper. If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
6. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooked fettuccine pasta and the sautéed seafood back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, so the pasta and seafood are well coated with that luscious creamy sauce. Let it warm through for a minute.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Seafood Alfredo Pasta is ready to be served! Dish it out onto plates and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of black pepper for a little flair. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as linguine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and a bit of flour to thicken it. For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative.
Can I Make This Recipe without Scallops?
Yes! If you don’t have scallops or prefer not to use them, you can simply double the amount of shrimp or add other seafood like crab, clams, or even veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor.