There’s something undeniably luxurious about a plate of creamy shrimp and scallops pasta . It’s rich, comforting, and somehow always feels like a treat—even on a Tuesday night. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself after a long day, this dish hits all the right notes: tender seafood, al dente pasta, and that deep, savory flavor we call umami.

I remember making this recipe for the first time while living in a tiny apartment with barely enough counter space. I was trying to impress a date (who later became my husband), and let me tell you—this dish worked better than any love letter ever could.

What makes this shrimp and scallops pasta so special? For starters, it comes together in under 30 minutes. Plus, it uses affordable ingredients you can find at your local grocery store. If you're looking for more seafood inspiration, try our equally satisfying Shrimp Alfredo Pasta —another weeknight winner!

So grab your apron and let’s dive into a recipe that’s as easy as it is impressive. And don’t worry—we’ll show you how to make it even more flavorful with just three simple tricks.

What Is Shrimp and Scallops Pasta?

Ever wonder why it’s called shrimp and scallops pasta ? Well, it’s not exactly rocket science—but it does have a certain ring to it. Imagine a dish so good it could charm your socks off—creamy, buttery, and loaded with ocean-fresh flavor.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Why not just shrimp pasta?” But here’s the thing—scallops bring a delicate sweetness that balances out the briny richness of shrimp. Together, they create a flavor harmony that’s hard to beat.

Legend has it that the way to someone’s heart really is through their stomach. So if you're trying to impress—or just want to treat yourself to something special—this dish might just be your secret weapon.

Ready to learn what makes this seafood pasta so unforgettable? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Scallops Pasta

Let’s talk flavor. First, there’s the buttery garlic sauce—rich, aromatic, and perfectly clingy to every strand of pasta. Then come the shrimp and scallops, each bite tender and bursting with natural sweetness. The final flourish? A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese that ties everything together with a salty, nutty finish.

And here’s the best part: you don’t need to spend a fortune to make it. Both shrimp and scallops are more affordable than many people think, especially when bought frozen or during seasonal sales. Cooking this at home instead of ordering out saves you cash and calories—no heavy cream needed here!

If you’ve tried our Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine , you’ll love how this version ups the ante with added texture from seared scallops.

So go ahead—treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your kitchen. Your taste buds (and wallet) will thank you.

How to Make Shrimp and Scallops Pasta

Quick Overview

This shrimp and scallops pasta is an easy one-pan wonder that takes less than 30 minutes to make. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—all without a drop of heavy cream. Just fresh seafood, garlic, butter, lemon juice, and a few pantry staples.

The best part? It’s beginner-friendly but still feels gourmet enough to serve guests. Whether you're meal-prepping or whipping up a romantic dinner, this dish delivers every time.

Total Time: 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Notes: Gluten-free option available

Key Ingredients for Shrimp and Scallops Pasta

Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dish:

• 12 oz raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz sea scallops
• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup lemon juice (or chicken broth)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Everything you need is either in your pantry or a quick trip to the store away. No exotic items required—just fresh, real food that tastes amazing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own shrimp and scallops pasta at home:

1. Cook the pasta : Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Season the seafood : Pat scallops and shrimp dry. Season both lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the scallops : In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add scallops and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook the shrimp : In the same pan, add another tbsp of butter. Sauté shrimp for 2–3 minutes until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
5. Make the sauce : In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Sauté garlic for 1 minute. Pour in lemon juice and simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Combine everything : Return shrimp and scallops to the pan. Toss with cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese until well coated.
7. Garnish and serve : Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing seafood—it ensures a perfect golden crust.

What to Serve With Shrimp and Scallops Pasta

To round out your meal, here are a few simple yet stylish pairing ideas:

1. Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect companion for soaking up every last drop of that creamy sauce. Try our homemade version for extra flavor.

2. Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

A peppery arugula salad adds brightness and balance to the richness of the pasta. Toss with lemon juice, olive oil, and shaved Parmesan for a refreshing contrast.

Top Tips for Perfecting Shrimp and Scallops Pasta

Want to take your shrimp and scallops pasta from great to unforgettable ? Here are some chef-approved tips:

Use cold-water scallops : These are less processed and hold up better when searing. Avoid "wet" scallops—they release too much moisture and won't brown properly.

Don’t skip the lemon juice : Lemon juice adds depth and acidity to the sauce. If you prefer not to use alcohol, swap it with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice.

Parmesan is key : Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a rich umami boost. Skip the pre-grated stuff—it often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth blending.

Batch-cook seafood : Sear scallops and shrimp separately to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding = steaming = no golden crust.

Make it gluten-free : Use gluten-free pasta or serve over spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.

Even if you’re new to cooking seafood, these tips will help you nail this dish every time.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep your shrimp and scallops pasta tasting fresh:

Fridge Storage : Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Seafood can be delicate, so eat it sooner rather than later for best flavor and texture.

Reheating Options :

• Microwave : Place pasta in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between.
• Stovetop : Gently reheat in a pan with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Stir constantly to avoid drying out.
• Oven : Not ideal due to seafood sensitivity, but if reheating a larger batch, cover and warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10–12 minutes.

Freezing Note : Not recommended. Seafood tends to become rubbery when frozen and thawed.

Meal Prep Hack : Cook the seafood and sauce separately from the pasta. When ready to eat, combine and toss with freshly cooked noodles for optimal texture.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're cooking for a loved one, feeding the family, or simply treating yourself, this shrimp and scallops pasta is a showstopper. It’s quick, elegant, and full of that deep, savory umami flavor we all crave—especially on busy nights.

And now that you’ve got 3 easy ways to boost umami , you can customize this dish to suit your mood or pantry contents. From soy sauce to miso paste, a dash of anchovy paste to a sprinkle of mushrooms—your flavor possibilities are endless.

Don’t forget to share this post with fellow foodies or pin it for later. If you give this recipe a try, leave a comment below or tag us on Instagram—we’d love to see your creations!

Happy cooking! 

Related Recipes:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine
• One-Pan Creamy Tomato Shrimp Pasta
• Scallop Ceviche with Avocado Lime Crema