Name: Creamy Garlic Scallop & Bacon Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 12 large sea scallops; 10 oz spaghetti; 4 slices of bacon, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional); Special Equipment:; A large skillet; Tongs for flipping scallops; A fine grater for Parmesan

Creamy Garlic Scallop & Bacon Spaghetti

There’s something magical about a dish that brings the whole family to the table with big smiles and hearty appetites. Creamy Garlic Scallop Spaghetti with Bacon has become that dish in our home. It’s indulgent yet surprisingly easy to prepare—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. I first made it when I was looking to surprise my husband with something a little “fancier” than our usual spaghetti night. Little did I know, this recipe would soon become a favorite for everyone, including our picky eater!

What makes this dish so special? For me, it’s the irresistible combination of flavors—the richness of the garlic cream sauce, the crispy bites of bacon, and the tender, caramelized scallops. Plus, it’s versatile! While it’s fancy enough for guests, it’s straightforward enough for a busy mom to whip up after soccer practice.

My family always fights over the last scallop (I’ve learned to make extra just to avoid this), and the creamy, garlicky noodles disappear in seconds. The best part? It’s a one-pan wonder once the pasta is cooked—so cleanup is a breeze! Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone looking to elevate a simple pasta night, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it becomes a beloved tradition in your home, just like it has in ours.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:

1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

2. What can I substitute for bacon?
Turkey bacon or pancetta work wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any long pasta like fettuccine, linguine, or even angel hair works well with this recipe.

4. How do I prevent the scallops from sticking to the pan?
Ensure your pan is hot enough and use a light coat of oil. Let the scallops cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes before flipping.

5. Is heavy cream necessary for the sauce?
Heavy cream provides the best texture, but half-and-half can work in a pinch. The sauce will be slightly thinner.

What You Need to Make Creamy Garlic Scallop Spaghetti with Bacon:

Ingredients:

12 large sea scallops

10 oz spaghetti

4 slices of bacon, chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp butter

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Special Equipment:

A large skillet

Tongs for flipping scallops

A fine grater for Parmesan

How to Make It:

Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.

Sear the Scallops: Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in the skillet. Sear scallops for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, then simmer for 2–3 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.

Combine Everything: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce, then fold in the bacon. Add scallops on top and garnish with basil or parsley. Serve immediately.

Tips:

Dry the Scallops Thoroughly: This ensures a perfect sear and prevents steaming.

Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: It melts better and enhances the sauce’s flavor.

Cook Pasta Al Dente: The pasta will absorb the sauce better without becoming mushy.

Save Pasta Water: It’s a great way to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

Work Quickly with Scallops: Overcooking will make them rubbery.

Latest Reviews:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Absolutely delicious! My family loved it, and the scallops were perfectly cooked.” – Sarah T.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “A restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home. This is now in our regular rotation!” – James M.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Tasty, but next time I’ll add a little more garlic to the sauce.” – Rachel L.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for a special occasion! My guests were so impressed.” – Emily R.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe, but I’ll use pancetta next time instead of bacon for a twist.” – Karen H.

Printable Recipe:

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