Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Creamy Shrimp and Scallop Fettuccine:

For the Pasta

• 1 (16-ounce) package dry fettuccine noodles

For the Sauce

• 1 ½ tablespoons butter or margarine
• 1 cup chopped green onions
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups half-and-half cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Seafood

• 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 pound sea scallops

Seasonings

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4–6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or intimate gatherings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the fettuccine noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually 10–12 minutes) until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter or margarine over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped green onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Cook the Seafood

1. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
2. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the scallops. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and opaque. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly pour the half-and-half cream into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
2. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated.
3. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water and gradually stir it into the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the noodles in the sauce.
2. Return the shrimp and scallops to the skillet, folding them gently into the pasta and sauce mixture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs (optional).
2. Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing accompaniment.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Creamy Shrimp and Scallop Fettuccine is a dish that never goes out of style. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility:

1. High-Quality Ingredients: Using fresh seafood and Parmesan cheese elevates this dish, ensuring it’s rich in flavor.
2. Universal Comfort Food: Creamy pasta dishes are beloved worldwide for their satisfying and indulgent nature.
3. Quick and Easy: Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it accessible for busy cooks.
4. Adaptability: Whether you’re serving this dish as a romantic dinner or a casual family meal, it always feels special.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 650 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion sizes and ingredient brands.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of seafood?
Yes! You can substitute or add lobster, crabmeat, or white fish to this dish.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and cream alternatives. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

3. How do I prevent scallops from becoming rubbery?
Pat the scallops dry before cooking, and avoid overcooking them. Scallops only need 2–3 minutes per side.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and seafood in advance. Reheat gently before combining with cooked pasta.

Tips for Success

1. Choose Fresh Seafood: Fresh shrimp and scallops ensure the best flavor and texture. Frozen seafood works well, but make sure to thaw it completely.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta, as it will absorb some sauce without becoming mushy.
3. Balance the Sauce: Reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce if it becomes too thick.
4. Experiment with Herbs: Fresh basil, parsley, or chives can add an extra layer of flavor and color.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it may overcook the seafood.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the cream sauce may separate and the seafood could lose its texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Shrimp and Scallop Fettuccine is more than just a pasta dish—it’s an experience. The combination of tender seafood, silky cream sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine creates a meal that is both luxurious and comforting.

What makes this dish timeless is its ability to adapt to any occasion. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. Its rich, creamy flavor appeals to a wide range of palates, ensuring it remains a crowd-pleaser for generations.

So, whether you’re looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special, this recipe is the perfect choice. Its ease of preparation and unforgettable taste make it a dish you’ll return to again and again. Prepare it with love, and watch as it brings joy to your table. Bon appétit!