Creamy Scallops Pasta You Can Make in Minutes

Creamy scallops pasta is one of those meals that tastes luxurious yet takes very little time to prepare. The tender scallops pair beautifully with a silky cream sauce and warm pasta. Each bite feels rich and comforting. This dish works for a quick weeknight dinner or a special date night at home. The flavors are gentle, smooth and deeply satisfying. Once you try it you will want to make it again and again.

Ingredients Needed

For the pasta

12 ounces pasta of your choice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt for boiling water

For the scallops

1 pound large sea scallops
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 fourth teaspoon black pepper
1 fourth teaspoon salt

For the creamy sauce

1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 half cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 fourth teaspoon salt
1 fourth teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Step by Step Cooking Instructions for Creamy Scallops Pasta

Prepare the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a steady boil. Add the pasta. Cook until tender but still firm. Reserve one fourth cup of the pasta water for later. Drain and set aside.

Prep the scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown nicely in the pan. Sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides. Set them aside for a moment.

Cook the scallops

Heat a skillet over medium high. Add oil and butter. When it sizzles add the scallops. Cook two to three minutes until golden. Flip and cook two more minutes. Remove and set aside.

Start the creamy sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same pan add the butter for the sauce. Add the minced garlic and stir for one minute. The garlic should soften and smell fragrant.

Build the sauce

Pour in the cream and stir as it warms. Add Parmesan and let it melt into the sauce. If it gets too thick add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Season the sauce

Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Add the lemon juice. Stir well. The lemon brightens the cream and balances the richness. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.

Combine everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss gently until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Place the seared scallops on top or fold them gently into the pasta.

Finish with fresh herbs

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish. It adds a fresh and colorful touch.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

This creamy scallops pasta offers many easy ways to personalize it. If you enjoy a little heat add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. For deeper flavor add a splash of white wine before the cream and let it reduce for a minute. You can stir in spinach or peas for extra color and freshness. Swap Parmesan for Pecorino if you like a stronger cheese taste. For a lighter version use half and half instead of heavy cream although the sauce will be slightly thinner. Each adjustment keeps the dish delicious while adding your own touch.

Nutritional Information

A serving of creamy scallops pasta offers a balanced mix of protein carbohydrates and healthy fats. Scallops are naturally lean and provide vitamins and minerals including vitamin B twelve and magnesium. The cream and cheese add richness so enjoy this dish in moderation if you are watching calories. One serving is usually around five hundred to six hundred calories depending on portion size. It is filling and satisfying which makes it easy to enjoy a moderate amount while still feeling content.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy scallops pasta pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides. A simple green salad with lemon dressing complements the richness of the sauce. You can also serve steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli for extra color and nutrition. Warm crusty bread is always welcome since it helps soak up the creamy sauce left on the plate. For a special occasion you can serve it with a chilled white wine that has gentle fruity notes. This pasta also tastes amazing the next day when warmed gently on the stove.

Frequently Asked Questions