A tender scallops and plump shrimp nestled in a silky, dreamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Now imagine making it in under 30 minutes — with just four ingredients.

This isn’t your average weeknight meal; it’s weeknight magic . Whether you're cooking for two or feeding the whole family, this creamy seafood pasta recipe hits all the right notes: rich, comforting, and effortlessly elegant.

Scallops & Shrimp Recipes with Pasta : Did you know that the combination of scallops and shrimp has been a staple in coastal Italian kitchens for centuries? It's a match made in culinary heaven — sweet, briny, and utterly luxurious without breaking the bank.

And if you love quick, creamy seafood dishes, you’ll also want to try our equally indulgent Shrimp Alfredo with Garlic Bread combo — another reader favorite!

So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the ultimate comfort dish that’s as easy as it is impressive.

What Is Scallops & Shrimp Recipes with Pasta?

You might be wondering, “Why does this dish have such a mouthful of a name?” Well, sometimes the best recipes are the most descriptive ones. After all, when you’re talking about perfectly seared scallops, juicy shrimp, and a silky pasta base — why sugarcoat it?

Let’s be honest, naming a dish after what it actually is can be refreshingly honest. Plus, who doesn’t get excited when they read "scallops, shrimp, and pasta" in one sentence?

As the old saying goes, “The way to a person’s heart is through their stomach.” And trust me, once you taste this buttery, garlicky, creamy sauce, you’ll be hooked.

Ready to discover how four simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Scallops & Shrimp Recipes with Pasta

There’s so much to love about this dish — starting with that creamy, dreamy sauce that wraps around every bite like a warm hug from the sea. No cream? No problem. We’re using a genius 4-ingredient hack that keeps it light but still outrageously rich.

Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Super easy : Just four ingredients, minimal prep, and ready in no time.
• Budget-friendly : Skip fancy sauces — this one uses pantry staples.
• Restaurant-quality flavor : Sear those scallops until golden and toss everything together for an elegant finish.
• Crowd-pleasing texture : Tender shrimp, juicy scallops, and al dente pasta — perfection on a plate.

If you enjoyed our Lemon Butter Shrimp Linguine , you’ll adore this upgrade with added scallops and a richer twist.

So go ahead — treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy dinner without ever leaving your kitchen.

How to Make Scallops & Shrimp Recipes with Pasta

Quick Overview

This creamy seafood pasta comes together faster than takeout, with just four ingredients and zero fuss. It’s perfect for busy nights, lazy weekends, or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.

Flavor-wise, think buttery garlic, briny sweetness from the seafood, and a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. And yes — it really only takes 25 minutes from start to finish.

Whether you're gluten-free, dairy-light, or keto-curious (swap pasta for zucchini noodles!), this recipe is endlessly adaptable.

Now let’s break it down step by step.

Key Ingredients for Scallops & Shrimp Recipes with Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need for this magical 4-ingredient dish:

• 12 oz large shrimp , peeled and deveined
• 8 oz sea scallops , patted dry
• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine (or gluten-free alternative)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic , minced
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese , grated
• Fresh parsley , chopped (optional, for garnish)

Pro tip: For extra richness, add a splash of lemon juice at the end. Totally optional, but highly recommended!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta : Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the garlic : In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook the seafood : Add the scallops and shrimp to the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Make the creamy sauce : In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss in the cooked pasta, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and glossy.
5. Combine everything : Return the seafood to the pan. Toss gently to coat in the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish and serve : Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a final drizzle of melted butter or olive oil if desired.

Voilà — your ultra-creamy, ultra-fast seafood pasta is ready to serve!

What to Serve With Scallops & Shrimp Recipes with Pasta

This dish is already a full-flavored star on its own, but here are a few pairings to round out your meal:

1. Garlic Bread : Warm, crispy, and perfect for soaking up every last drop of that luscious sauce. Try our Homemade Garlic Butter Baguette for extra flair.
2. Green Salad : A bright, lemon vinaigrette-dressed salad adds freshness and balances the richness. Arugula or spinach work especially well.

Bonus tip: If you're going all out, add a side of crusty bread and a chilled glass of Prosecco for a mini Italian feast at home.

Top Tips for Perfecting Scallops & Shrimp Recipes with Pasta

Want to nail this dish every single time? Here are some chef-approved tips:

• Dry your seafood : Pat scallops and shrimp completely dry before cooking. This ensures a perfect sear and avoids steaming.
• Use a hot pan : Don’t skimp on preheating. A screaming-hot skillet gives scallops that gorgeous golden crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan : Cook seafood in batches if needed. Crowding leads to steaming, not searing.
• Parmesan makes the sauce : Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated. Trust us — it’s worth the effort.
• Add acid if needed : A splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish and cuts through the richness.

For a lighter version: Swap half the butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan twist.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep this dish tasting fresh:

• Fridge Storage : Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days .
• Freezer Option : Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Best Ways to Reheat:

• Microwave : Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
• Stovetop : Gently reheat in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
• Oven : Not ideal for pasta, but if you must, cover with foil and warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Pro tip: Reheated seafood pasta tends to absorb liquid, so always add a touch of moisture to bring back that creamy texture.

Final Thoughts: Seafood Comfort at Its Finest

This Scallops & Shrimp Recipes with Pasta dish proves that simplicity doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With just four ingredients and a handful of steps, you’ve got a dinner that feels indulgent yet totally doable.

It’s the kind of meal that brings people together — whether it’s a cozy night in, a dinner party centerpiece, or a solo treat after a long day.

If you tried this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment below or share a photo on Instagram and tag me — I always love seeing your creations.

And don’t forget to explore more seafood inspiration in our Weeknight Seafood Recipe Collection . Your next favorite dish is just a click away!

Happy cooking,

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen seafood?
Scallops & Shrimp Recipes with Pasta: Absolutely! Just thaw thoroughly and pat dry before cooking for the best results.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Scallops & Shrimp Recipes with Pasta : Yes! Use vegan butter and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Q: What pasta works best?
Scallops & Shrimp Recipes with Pasta: Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are ideal.