Keys Creamy Bay Scallops Spaghetti
- Keys Cookbook
- Jun 10
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 22
This creamy scallop pasta is quick to make, yet packed with flavor. The scallops are seared just right to enhance their flavor, and the sherry sauce brings depth to the dish. Whether served for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 20 mins Servings: 12–14
Ingredients
16 ounces uncooked thick spaghetti
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 pounds bay scallops (or larger scallops, cut into smaller pieces if desired)
4 tablespoons butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
4 teaspoons grated lemon zest
1 pinch red pepper flakes
⅔ cup dry sherry (or white wine as a substitute)
2 cups heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter option)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 lemons, juiced
4 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley, divided
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for serving
Directions
1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 10 minutes or 1 minute less than directed on the package.
2. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over high heat. When oil just starts to smoke, add scallops and arrange in a single layer. Let sear on high for about 1 minute. Toss to turn.
3. Add butter and stir scallops until butter melts. Stir in minced garlic.
4. Add lemon zest and red pepper flakes. Stir in sherry (or white wine) and cook until the alcohol cooks off, about 1 minute.
5. Pour in cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
6. Drain pasta. Add to skillet with scallops and bring to a simmer. Add ½ of the chopped parsley and cook until pasta is heated through and tender, about 1 minute.
7. Remove from heat. Garnish generously with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Add the remaining parsley. Serve in warm bowls.
Suggestions
For a twist, substitute the pasta with linguine or fettuccine, and use white wine instead of sherry for a different flavor.
To add a touch of freshness, stir in some spinach or other greens when adding the pasta to the sauce.
For extra decadence, try using homemade pasta. It pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
You can also substitute the bay scallops with other seafood like shrimp or lobster to make this dish your own.
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