Seafood Pasta in Creamy Sauce

Seafood Pasta in Creamy Sauce is a luxurious, flavor-packed dish that brings the richness of the sea to your table. With tender shrimp, squid, and mussels enveloped in a silky garlic cream sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is both comforting and elegant—a perfect choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of flavor from fresh seafood and rich cream sauce
• Elegant enough for entertaining, easy enough for weeknights
• Customizable with your favorite seafood or pasta
• Quick prep and cook time—ready in about 30 minutes
• A restaurant-quality dish made simply at home

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Linguine or fettuccine pasta
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Chili flakes (optional)
• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Calamari rings
• Mussels (shelled or in shell)
• Dry white wine
• Lemon juice
• Heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Seafood
   In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and cook the shrimp until pink. Remove and set aside. Repeat with calamari and mussels (if raw), cooking each until just done.
3. Make the Sauce
   In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and chili flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Deglaze with white wine and lemon juice. Simmer until reduced by half.
4. Add the Cream
   Pour in the heavy cream. Simmer on low heat until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine
   Return the seafood to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
6. Serve
   Serve hot with extra parsley and lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use scallops or crab instead of shrimp for variety
• Stir in baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor
• Add a splash of tomato paste to the sauce for a rosé twist
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed
• For a stronger seafood flavor, add a touch of anchovy paste or clam juice

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
• Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce
• Not recommended for freezing as the sauce may separate and seafood can become rubbery

FAQs

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, just make sure it is fully thawed and drained to avoid excess water in the sauce.

What kind of white wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best.

Is this dish spicy?

Only mildly, and the chili flakes are optional.

Can I substitute the cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, though the sauce will be thinner.

What pasta shapes work well for this recipe?

Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are ideal, but short pasta like penne can work too.

How can I avoid overcooking the seafood?

Cook each type of seafood briefly and remove from the pan as soon as it’s just cooked through.

Can I add cheese?

You can, but seafood pasta traditionally avoids cheese. A sprinkle of Parmesan is acceptable if desired.

What can I use instead of wine?

Use seafood or chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice as an alcohol-free alternative.

Is this recipe suitable for children?

Yes, just omit the chili flakes and ensure seafood is fully cooked.

Can I prepare it in advance?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead and assemble just before serving.

Conclusion

Seafood Pasta in Creamy Sauce is a rich and satisfying meal that looks impressive but comes together quickly. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a hearty weeknight meal, this dish offers a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the sea in a creamy, comforting sauce that everyone will love.

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