If you’re craving something indulgent yet elegant, Creamy Scallop (or White Fish) Rigatoni is the dish for you. This comforting, restaurant-quality pasta brings the richness of a creamy Parmesan sauce together with perfectly seared seafood and the satisfying bite of rigatoni. Whether you’re celebrating date night at home or looking to elevate a casual dinner, this recipe is a stunning centerpiece.
Seafood lovers and pasta aficionados alike will adore this flavorful, creamy rigatoni dish. It’s quick enough for weeknights but refined enough for a dinner party. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Rigatoni Recipe
- Versatile protein options: Choose between buttery sea scallops or tender chunks of white fish like cod or halibut.
- Creamy, garlicky sauce: Balanced with broth, cream, and Parmesan—rich but not heavy.
- Restaurant quality, home-cooked: Simple techniques give you a gourmet feel with zero intimidation.
- Quick and easy: Ready in 30 minutes or less with just one skillet and one pot.
- Crowd-pleaser: Great for seafood lovers, pasta fans, and anyone looking to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To serve 2–3 generous portions, gather the following:
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 8–10 large sea scallops or 6–8 oz firm white fish (e.g., cod or halibut), cut into 1-inch chunks
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Large skillet (preferably stainless steel or cast iron for searing)
- Tongs or fish spatula
- Colander
- Ladle (to reserve pasta water)
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Creamy Scallop (or White Fish) Rigatoni
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Prepare the Seafood
While the pasta is cooking, pat the scallops or fish chunks very dry using paper towels. This is key for a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3️⃣ Sear to Golden Perfection
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the scallops or fish pieces in a single layer without crowding the pan.
- Scallops: Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms and the centers are opaque.
- Fish: Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until cooked through.
Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4️⃣ Build the Cream Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter, then sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the broth and heavy cream, using your spoon to deglaze and scrape up any flavorful bits from the pan. Simmer for 3–5 minutes to reduce slightly.
5️⃣ Add the Cheese
Whisk in the grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen.
6️⃣ Combine and Serve
Add the drained rigatoni into the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the luscious, cheesy sauce. Plate the pasta and top with your seared scallops or fish. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Serve immediately while hot and creamy!
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Dry seafood thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of a good sear—dry those scallops or fish chunks well.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: If needed, sear the seafood in batches to ensure a golden crust.
- Use broth wisely: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth works well for pescatarian diners.
- Choose your pasta wisely: Rigatoni holds sauce beautifully, but penne or fettuccine are great substitutes.
- Upgrade with extras: Add a handful of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms to boost flavor and texture.
Seafood Swaps & Dietary Options
- Protein Variations:
- Shrimp or lobster meat can substitute scallops.
- For a vegetarian version, skip seafood and add roasted cauliflower or sautéed mushrooms.
- Dairy-Free Options:
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
- Low-Carb Adaptation:
- Serve the creamy seafood over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Suggested Pairings
Elevate this seafood pasta experience with perfect pairings:
Wine:
- A crisp Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce and delicate seafood.
Sides:
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- Light arugula or spinach salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Grilled asparagus or roasted broccolini
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Though best served fresh, leftovers can still be delicious:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently: Use a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. Microwave in short intervals if needed, but avoid overcooking the seafood.
- Do not freeze: The cream sauce may separate and seafood texture will suffer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prep the sauce and cook the pasta ahead, but wait to sear the seafood just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Q: What seafood works best in this recipe?
A: Large sea scallops are ideal for searing, but cod, halibut, or even monkfish work well as firm, flake-resistant alternatives.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic step or finish with a dash of hot sauce.
Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk plus a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Q: Can I use frozen seafood?
A: Yes, but thaw completely and dry very well before cooking to avoid soggy results.
Let’s Get Cooking!
There’s something irresistible about a bowl of creamy rigatoni twirled with tender scallops or flaky white fish, kissed with garlic and Parmesan. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this dish brings bold flavor and coastal elegance in every bite.
Love this recipe? Be sure to share it with your seafood-loving friends, leave a comment with your twist on it, and subscribe to the blog for more mouthwatering meals that are easy to master.
Bon appétit! 🐟🍝🧄