Meta Description: Learn how to make the best Seafood Carbonara with shrimp, scallops, and crispy bacon in a creamy Parmesan sauce. This easy Italian-inspired recipe is ready in just 35 minutes.
If you're searching for the best Seafood Carbonara recipe, you're in the right place. This creamy seafood pasta combines perfectly cooked shrimp, scallops, crispy bacon, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and spaghetti to create a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly easy to prepare at home.
Unlike traditional carbonara, which typically uses pancetta or guanciale, this seafood variation adds fresh seafood for a delicious twist while preserving the creamy texture that makes carbonara famous. Whether you're cooking for family, entertaining guests, or preparing a romantic dinner, Seafood Carbonara is guaranteed to impress.
Why You'll Love This Seafood Carbonara
- Ready in about 35 minutes.
- Rich, creamy, and packed with seafood flavor.
- High in protein.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions.
- Uses simple ingredients with gourmet results.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces (340 g) spaghetti
- Water for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt
For the Seafood
- 8 ounces (225 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 ounces (170 g) sea scallops
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Carbonara Sauce
- 3 large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped (or pancetta if preferred)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Step-by-Step Seafood Carbonara Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to the package instructions.
Reserve one cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 2: Cook the Seafood
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until pink.
Cook the scallops for approximately 2 minutes on each side until lightly golden.
Transfer the seafood to a plate.
Step 3: Prepare the Carbonara Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Egg yolk
- Parmesan cheese
- Black pepper
Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Cook the Bacon
In the same skillet, cook the bacon until crisp if not already prepared.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Reduce the heat to low.
Add the hot cooked spaghetti to the skillet.
Remove the pan from direct heat.
Slowly pour in the egg and Parmesan mixture while tossing the pasta continuously.
The residual heat cooks the eggs into a silky sauce without scrambling them.
Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
Return the cooked seafood to the skillet and gently toss to combine.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped parsley, additional Parmesan cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges if desired.
Tips for Perfect Seafood Carbonara
- Never add the egg mixture over high heat, or the eggs may scramble.
- Reserve pasta water to help create a silky, glossy sauce.
- Cook seafood just until done to keep it tender.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately, as carbonara is best enjoyed fresh.
Approximate Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 serving (Recipe serves 4)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 670 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 49 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Total Sugars | 2 g |
| Total Fat | 35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| Cholesterol | 290 mg |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
| Potassium | 510 mg |
| Calcium | 390 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
| Vitamin D | 12% DV |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Moderate |
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
What to Serve with Seafood Carbonara
Complete your meal with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted asparagus
- Steamed broccoli
- Sautéed spinach
- Grilled zucchini
A crisp green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the carbonara sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
Can I make Seafood Carbonara without bacon?
Absolutely. While bacon adds a smoky flavor, you can omit it or replace it with turkey bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a different variation.
Why did my carbonara sauce become scrambled?
The pan was likely too hot. Remove it from the heat before adding the egg mixture and toss continuously using the residual heat from the pasta.
Can I reheat leftovers?
Seafood Carbonara is best served fresh. If reheating, warm it gently over low heat with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water. Avoid overheating, as the sauce may separate.
Final Thoughts
Seafood Carbonara is a delicious twist on a timeless Italian favorite, combining tender shrimp, sweet scallops, crispy bacon, and a silky Parmesan egg sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. It's a dish that feels elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. With fresh ingredients, careful preparation, and the right technique, you can enjoy a creamy, flavorful seafood pasta that rivals your favorite restaurant.
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