Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet seafood paradise! This Surf and Surf Alfredo isn't just another pasta dish – it's a luxurious symphony of succulent shrimp and tender scallops dancing in a creamy Parmesan sauce that will make your mouth water from the first bite. Whether you're looking to impress a date, treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, or simply indulge in the most irresistible seafood pasta you've ever tasted, this recipe is your golden ticket to culinary bliss.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp
- 1/2 cup cooked scallops
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the Alfredo sauce. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
- Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream has slightly thickened.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined. The sauce should be creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- When the fettuccine is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Add the drained fettuccine directly into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
- Gently toss the fettuccine in the sauce to coat it evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked shrimp and scallops to the skillet, gently folding them into the pasta and sauce. Heat everything together for another 2-3 minutes, just until the seafood is warmed through.
- Once everything is heated, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve the Surf and Surf Alfredo immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Always use fresh seafood for the best flavor and texture. If possible, buy shrimp and scallops on the same day you plan to cook.
- Be careful not to overcook the seafood – shrimp and scallops become rubbery quickly. They should be just heated through and remain tender.
- For extra richness, consider using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated varieties.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out – this starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta perfectly.
- For a beautiful presentation, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.
- Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy seafood flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 180mg
