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Best Scallop Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality seafood pasta that feels elegant yet incredibly easy to make, this Creamy Scallop Pasta is about to become your new favorite dinner recipe! Perfectly seared scallops are served over creamy garlic parmesan pasta for a rich, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor.

Who doesn’t like scallops? I have several recipes on this blog that contain scallops. You can find them all here. Scallops with bacon and Lemon garlic butter scallops.

This dish comes together in under 40 minutes and is perfect for date nights, dinner parties, holidays, or whenever you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The scallops are beautifully golden on the outside while remaining tender and buttery inside, paired perfectly with a silky parmesan cream sauce.

Trust me — every bite tastes like something straight from a fancy coastal restaurant!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ready in under 40 minutes
  • Restaurant-quality at home
  • Rich and creamy garlic parmesan sauce
  • Perfectly seared buttery scallops
  • Easy enough for weeknights
  • Elegant enough for special occasions

WHAT IS NEEDED TO MAKE THIS SCALLOP PASTA 

Nova scotia bay scallops

How to Make Best Scallop Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.

Set aside.


Step 2: Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops completely dry using paper towels. This helps create that beautiful golden crust.

Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.


Step 3: Sear the Scallops

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Once hot, place the scallops into the pan and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and caramelized.

Do not overcrowd the pan.

Remove scallops and set aside.


Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to medium.

In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well.

Add Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.


Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta into the sauce and toss until fully coated.

Top with the seared scallops.

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese.

Serve immediately while warm.

Tips For Perfect Scallops

  • Pat scallops dry before cooking for the best sear.
  • Use a hot pan to achieve a golden crust.
  • Avoid moving the scallops while they cook.
  • Fresh parmesan melts best into the sauce.
  • Don’t overcook scallops — they cook quickly!

What To Serve With Creamy Scallop Pasta

  • Garlic bread
  • Caesar salad
  • Roasted asparagus
  • White wine
  • Lemon wedges

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or broth.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What pasta works best?

Linguine and fettuccine work beautifully because they hold onto the creamy sauce.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus make great additions.

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WANT MORE SEAFOOD RECIPES

If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality seafood pasta that feels elegant yet incredibly easy to make, this Creamy Scallop Pasta is about to become your new favorite dinner recipe! Perfectly seared scallops are served over creamy garlic parmesan pasta for a rich, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. This dish comes together in under 40 minutes and is perfect for date nights, dinner parties, holidays, or whenever you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The scallops are beautifully golden on the outside while remaining tender and buttery inside, paired perfectly with a silky parmesan cream sauce. Trust me — every bite tastes like something straight from a fancy coastal restaurant!

Best Scallop Pasta Recipe

Yield: 4
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
No Ratings

Ingredients

  • 1 Lemon
  • 400 grams of Linguine pasta
  • 400 grams Large Scallops
  • 5 tbsp of butter
  • 1 tbsp of olive oil
  • 3 cloves of crushed garlic
  • 1 tsp of garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

    Step 1: Cook the Pasta

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.

    Set aside.

    Step 2: Prepare the Scallops

    Pat the scallops completely dry using paper towels. This helps create that beautiful golden crust.

    Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

    Step 3: Sear the Scallops

    Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

    Once hot, place the scallops into the pan and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and caramelized.

    Do not overcrowd the pan.

    Remove scallops and set aside.

    Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

    Reduce heat to medium.

    In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

    Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well.

    Add Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

    If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

    Step 5: Combine Everything

    Add the cooked pasta into the sauce and toss until fully coated.

    Top with the seared scallops.

    Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese.

    Serve immediately while warm.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 500Total Fat: 24gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 1014mgCarbohydrates: 43gFiber: 4gSugar: 1gProtein: 31g

These calculations are based off Nutritionix

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