Creamy Seafood Pasta is a decadent and flavorful dish featuring linguine, shrimp, mussels, crispy bacon, and peas tossed in a rich cream sauce. Brightened with lemon and garlic, this one-pot recipe is perfect for an elegant dinner or a satisfying weeknight meal. Pair it with crusty bread and a glass of white wine for a complete and impressive dining experience.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound linguine
- 1 cup frozen peas
For the Seafood and Sauce:
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 8–10 ounces mussels, cleaned and debearded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon wedges
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the linguine according to package instructions.
- Add the frozen peas to the pot 3 minutes before the pasta is done.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crisp.
- Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 15 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink.
- Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Prepare the Mussels:
- Pour the white wine into the skillet and bring it to a boil.
- Add the mussels, cover with a lid, and cook for 5 minutes until they open.
- Discard any unopened mussels and set the rest aside.
- Make the Cream Sauce:
- Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the shrimp, mussels, pasta, and peas to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Garnish with cooked bacon, parsley, grated Parmesan, and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.
Nutrients
- Serving Size: 1 portion (out of 6 servings)
- Calories: 436 kcal
- Nutritional Breakdown:
- Protein: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 178mg
This Creamy Seafood Pasta combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the freshness of seafood and peas for a delightful meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this gourmet-style dish in the comfort of your home!
Why This Recipe Stands Out
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of creamy, tangy, and savory elements makes this dish irresistible. The sauce is enriched with heavy cream and brightened with a touch of lemon juice, while the salty, smoky flavor of crispy bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of shrimp and mussels. The addition of peas adds a hint of freshness and a pop of color, making this a visually stunning meal.
One-Pot Simplicity
Despite its impressive appearance, Creamy Seafood Pasta is surprisingly easy to prepare. By using just one pot for the pasta and a skillet for the sauce, this recipe minimizes cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. The reserved pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the linguine, ensuring every bite is perfectly coated.
A Gourmet Experience at Home
This dish brings restaurant-quality dining to your kitchen. Its sophisticated ingredients, such as shrimp, mussels, and white wine, make it suitable for special occasions while still being accessible for everyday meals. Paired with a crisp white wine and some crusty bread, it’s a complete dining experience.
The Key Ingredients That Elevate the Dish
Seafood: Fresh and Flavorful
Shrimp and mussels are the stars of this dish, providing both protein and flavor. The shrimp are cooked until tender and pink, while the mussels add a briny taste that complements the creamy sauce. Opt for fresh seafood whenever possible, but frozen shrimp and pre-cleaned mussels can be used for convenience.
Linguine: A Classic Pasta Choice
Linguine is an excellent choice for this recipe as its flat shape allows it to hold the sauce beautifully. However, you can easily substitute it with fettuccine, spaghetti, or even pappardelle, depending on your preference.
Crispy Bacon for Depth
The addition of bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce and tender seafood. It also releases flavorful fat that serves as the base for cooking garlic and shrimp, layering the dish with even more richness.
Peas: A Touch of Sweetness
Peas bring a hint of sweetness and a vibrant green color to the dish. They complement the creamy sauce and seafood while adding a healthy vegetable component to the meal.
Lemon and White Wine: Brightening the Dish
A squeeze of lemon juice and a splash of white wine add acidity, which cuts through the richness of the cream and balances the overall flavor profile.
Cooking Tips for Success
1. Use High-Quality Ingredients
- Opt for fresh seafood for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Choose a good-quality dry white wine, as it contributes significantly to the flavor of the sauce.
2. Don’t Overcook the Seafood
Seafood cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it. Shrimp should be pink and firm, while mussels should open fully during cooking. Discard any mussels that remain closed after cooking.
3. Reserve Pasta Water
The starchy water from cooking the pasta is a secret weapon for achieving a silky, cohesive sauce. Add it gradually to adjust the consistency of the sauce without diluting the flavor.
4. Balance the Creaminess
The cream sauce is rich, so the addition of lemon juice and white wine is crucial for balancing the flavors. Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste for the perfect tangy note.
5. Garnish Generously
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice enhance both the flavor and presentation of the dish. Don’t skip this step!
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a Fresh Salad
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta. Consider a simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and shaved Parmesan.
Add Bread for Dipping
Serve the pasta with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. This addition makes the meal feel even more indulgent.
Choose the Right Wine
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and seafood.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion
Weeknight Dinners
This one-pot dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. It’s filling, delicious, and doesn’t require an extensive ingredient list.
Entertaining Guests
Impress your guests with a meal that looks and tastes gourmet. The combination of shrimp, mussels, and a creamy sauce feels luxurious, but the preparation is simple enough to avoid stress in the kitchen.
Celebratory Meals
Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or holiday dinner, this recipe offers the elegance and flavor needed for special occasions.
Meal Prep Option
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 2 days, and the flavors deepen over time. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Health Benefits of Seafood Pasta
- Rich in Protein: Shrimp and mussels are excellent sources of lean protein, which supports muscle repair and overall health.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Seafood provides heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, known for reducing inflammation and improving brain health.
- Nutrient-Packed Vegetables: Peas add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish a balanced meal.
- Portion Control: The combination of protein, vegetables, and pasta ensures a satisfying meal without the need for excessive portions.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Pasta Dish
Creamy Seafood Pasta is a standout recipe that combines rich flavors, satisfying textures, and a touch of elegance. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or simply looking for a versatile and impressive dish, this pasta is a winner. It’s easy enough for beginners yet refined enough to wow your guests.