Creamy Cajun Seafood Pasta
Introduction
Few meals feel as indulgent as a creamy seafood pasta served fresh from the stove. This Creamy Cajun Scallop & Shrimp Alfredo features perfectly seared scallops, tender shrimp, and silky fettuccine coated in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce. It’s one of those easy dinner recipes that’s ideal for quick weeknight meals and family dinner ideas when you’re craving restaurant-quality comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with bold Cajun flavor.
- Perfectly seared scallops and juicy shrimp in every bite.
- Restaurant-quality dinner made at home.
- Ready in about 40 minutes.
- Perfect for date nights, holidays, and special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces (340 g) fettuccine
- Water, for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt (for the pasta water)
For the Cajun Seafood
- 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine until al dente according to the package directions, about 10–12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside. - Season the Seafood
Pat the scallops and shrimp completely dry using paper towels. Season both with the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. - Sear the Scallops
Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the scallops in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms and the centers are just opaque. Remove and set aside. - Cook the Shrimp
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Transfer them to the plate with the scallops to avoid overcooking. - Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Melt the 3 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until smooth. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, if using. Continue stirring until the sauce is silky and creamy. - Combine the Pasta
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the Alfredo sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. This elegant pasta is perfect for holiday entertaining, great for meal prep, and can also be a budget-friendly weeknight dinner by using only shrimp if desired. - Finish the Dish
Gently return the scallops and shrimp to the skillet, tossing carefully to coat them in the sauce without breaking the scallops. Heat for 1–2 minutes, just until warmed through. - Serve
Let the pasta rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while the seafood is tender and the sauce is at its creamiest.
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Pro Tips & Variations
For perfectly seared scallops, make sure they are completely dry before seasoning and cooking. Excess moisture prevents the beautiful golden crust from forming. Freshly grate the Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses for the smoothest Alfredo sauce. If you’re looking for healthy substitutions, replace part of the heavy cream with half-and-half or add steamed broccoli, spinach, or asparagus for extra vegetables. To make this recipe more budget-friendly, prepare it using only shrimp or substitute part of the scallops with additional shrimp. This pasta is also suitable for meal prep, although seafood is always best enjoyed fresh. Store leftovers in airtight containers and reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to maintain the sauce’s silky texture. Beginners should avoid overcooking the seafood—shrimp should turn pink and scallops should be opaque with a lightly golden crust. For quick dinner ideas, have all ingredients measured and prepared before heating the skillet, as this recipe comes together quickly once cooking begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. The Alfredo sauce can be prepared a day in advance. For the best texture, cook the seafood fresh and combine everything just before serving.
What can I substitute for scallops?
Additional shrimp, lobster, crab meat, firm white fish, or even chicken breast make excellent substitutes.
How do I store leftovers?
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 milk to prevent the sauce from separating.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, although it is best enjoyed fresh. If preparing ahead, store the seafood and pasta separately whenever possible for the best texture.
Can beginners make this recipe?
Absolutely. The recipe uses straightforward techniques, and as long as you avoid overcooking the seafood and keep the sauce over gentle heat, it’s very beginner-friendly.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 860 kcal |
| Protein | 52 g |
| Carbohydrates | 47 g |
| Fat | 50 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients and brands used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy Cajun seafood Alfredo with warm garlic bread, roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a crisp Caesar salad to balance the richness. Pair it with sparkling water, fresh lemonade, or a chilled dry white wine for an elegant holiday dinner, memorable family gathering, or romantic date night dinner.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cajun Scallop & Shrimp Alfredo delivers everything you want in a restaurant-quality seafood pasta—perfectly seared seafood, silky homemade Alfredo sauce, and tender fettuccine infused with bold Cajun spices. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
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