Created on November 18th, 2025 at 11:20 am
A rich and satisfying dish full of flavor
Creamy Garlic Seafood Pasta is a delightful combination of fresh seafood, a luscious cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish blends the brininess of the sea with the richness of garlic and cream, creating a comforting yet elegant meal. The vibrant colors of the shrimp and scallops against the soft, pale pasta add visual appeal, while the aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen enhances the experience, inviting everyone to gather around the table. It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for entertaining, yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The beauty of this pasta lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The tenderness of the seafood mingles beautifully with the creamy sauce, while the garlic infuses each bite with a warm, aromatic touch. The dish is versatile; you can use your favorite seafood, adapting it to what is fresh and available. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and easily, making it ideal for busy evenings. Leftovers are a treat, as the flavors deepen overnight, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort the next day.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients List
- 8 oz (≈225 g) fettuccine pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (≈450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ lb (≈225 g) scallops, cleaned
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil, minced, for garnish
Kitchen Tools
This recipe keeps things straightforward, focusing on the essentials that simplify your cooking experience. With just a few tools, you’ll navigate the steps easily, turning fresh ingredients into a memorable dish.
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Colander
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain it and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water for later. The pasta should retain a slight bite, providing a perfect texture against the creamy sauce.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown. The aroma of garlic will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the seafood to shine.
Add the shrimp and scallops to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the seafood is opaque and cooked through. The shrimp will turn a lovely pink, while the scallops will gain a golden hue.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to incorporate. Bring the mixture to a low simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce. The cream should become silky and smooth, coating the seafood beautifully.
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and spinach, allowing them to wilt and soften in the sauce for 2-3 minutes. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes and spinach will contrast nicely against the creamy backdrop.
Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, mixing well to ensure each strand is coated with the creamy seafood sauce. If the dish seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a hint of freshness. The dish is ready to be plated and enjoyed, inviting guests to help themselves.
Pro Tips
- Use a mix of seafood for added complexity — try including mussels or clams for freshness.
- Don’t overcook the seafood; it should be tender and perfectly cooked.
- Save some pasta water for adjusting the sauce consistency if needed.
- This dish can be made ahead and warmed gently; just add a splash of cream before serving.
- A squeeze of lemon over the top just before serving enhances the flavors beautifully.
Creamy Comfort, Made Simple
Creamy Garlic Seafood Pasta is a stunning yet uncomplicated dish that brings the flavors of the ocean to your table. The harmony of creamy garlic sauce, tender seafood, and perfectly cooked pasta yields a meal that feels both indulgent and cozy. This comforting recipe proves that gourmet meals can be made simply, bringing joy and satisfaction in every bite.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 58 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Creamy Garlic Seafood Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Seafood
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ lb scallops, cleaned
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Seasoning
- to taste Salt & pepper
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- fresh parsley or basil, minced (for garnish) Optional
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain it and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
Cooking the Seafood
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
- Add the shrimp and scallops to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the seafood is opaque and cooked through.
Making the Cream Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to incorporate. Bring the mixture to a low simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and spinach, allowing them to wilt and soften in the sauce for 2-3 minutes.
Combining and Serving
- Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, mixing well to ensure each strand is coated with the creamy seafood sauce.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a hint of freshness.
Notes
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