Name: Holiday Seafood Spaghetti + Salmon Meatballs – Creamy White Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 lb scallops or white fish, cubed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 lb cooked salmon, flaked; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Let me introduce you to the ultimate festive showstopper: Holiday Seafood Spaghetti with Salmon Meatballs, all wrapped up in a dreamy, creamy white sauce. This dish is like a cozy winter evening wrapped in a bowl comforting, elegant, and absolutely bursting with flavor. Imagine twirling your fork into luscious pasta coated in a rich sauce, dotted with tender seafood and juicy salmon meatballs. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re celebrating something special… even if it’s just a Tuesday night. Trust me, you’re going to fall head over heels for this one.

Why You’ll Love Holiday Seafood Spaghetti + Salmon Meatballs – Creamy White Sauce

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Whether you’re serving it as a main course at your holiday table or indulging in a luxurious dinner for two, this dish fits the bill beautifully.

Budget-Friendly: Using accessible ingredients like frozen seafood mix and canned salmon helps keep the costs down without skimping on flavor or elegance.

Quick and Easy: Despite how luxurious it tastes, this dish comes together with surprising ease. Most of the work is done in under an hour!

Customizable: Not a fan of shrimp? Swap it for scallops. Prefer linguine over spaghetti? Go for it. This dish invites you to make it your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Holiday Seafood Spaghetti + Salmon Meatballs – Creamy White Sauce

Here’s what makes this festive seafood dream come alive each component brings something special to the table:

Spaghetti: The base of this hearty meal. Choose your favorite pasta, but spaghetti holds the sauce perfectly and gives those long, satisfying twirls.

Salmon Meatballs: Canned or fresh salmon mixed with breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, and a little love. They’re tender, flavorful, and give this dish its signature twist.

Seafood Mix: A medley of shrimp, squid, and mussels adds depth and a beautiful ocean-kissed flavor that transforms the pasta into something truly festive.

Garlic and Shallots: The aromatic base of the sauce. They bring a sweet, savory depth that builds the foundation of every bite.

Creamy White Sauce: Made with butter, flour, cream, and a splash of broth or white wine for richness and elegance. It hugs every noodle and coats every bite.

Parmesan Cheese: A finishing touch of umami magic. It melts beautifully into the sauce and brings that slightly salty, cheesy bite.

Fresh Herbs: Parsley, dill, or even chives add freshness and color that balances out the richness of the sauce.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F if you’re baking the salmon meatballs. This ensures they cook evenly and develop a lovely golden exterior.

Prepare the Salmon Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, garlic, and seasonings. Mix until well combined but don’t overwork it. Form into bite-sized balls and place them on a lined baking tray. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly golden.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and shallots, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. This is where the flavor magic starts!

Build the Sauce

Whisk in flour and cook for a minute or two to create a roux. Slowly pour in cream and broth or wine, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Let it simmer until thickened, silky, and irresistible.

Add the Seafood

Stir in your seafood mix and cook until just tender usually just a few minutes. Be careful not to overcook it, or the seafood can turn rubbery.

Combine Everything

Toss in the cooked spaghetti and salmon meatballs, gently folding them into the creamy sauce. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen things up.

Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Serve warm and watch everyone’s eyes light up as they take their first bite.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 550–650

(Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Holiday Seafood Spaghetti + Salmon Meatballs – Creamy White Sauce

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

A crisp green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness
Garlic bread or crusty baguette for soaking up every last bit of sauce
A chilled glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
Roasted asparagus or green beans for a fresh, vibrant contrast

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Don’t skip the fresh herbs they truly elevate the flavor and appearance.
If you’re short on time, use store-bought meatballs and just heat them in the sauce.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick in your cream sauce.
Make it gluten-free by swapping regular pasta and breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes! Just cook and flake the fresh salmon before mixing it into your meatballs.

2. What seafood can I use in the mix?
Shrimp, squid, mussels, scallops, or even crab meat work beautifully.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and reheat just before serving.

4. Is there a dairy-free version of the sauce?
Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter and a plant-based milk or cream alternative.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, but the sauce may slightly separate when reheated. Stir well and reheat gently.

6. What pasta works best for this recipe?
Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine are great choices because they hold the sauce well.

7. How do I know when the meatballs are done?
They should be firm to the touch and lightly golden on the outside.

8. What can I substitute for white wine?
Chicken or seafood broth with a splash of lemon juice works well as a substitute.

9. Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add chili flakes to the sauce or a dash of hot sauce.

10. Do I need to peel shrimp if using them?
Yes, it’s best to peel and devein shrimp before cooking for a better texture and presentation.

Conclusion

Holiday Seafood Spaghetti with Salmon Meatballs in a Creamy White Sauce is the kind of dish that makes any meal feel special. With rich flavors, luxurious textures, and heartwarming comfort in every bite, it’s perfect for festive gatherings or when you just want to treat yourself. Easy to make, totally customizable, and undeniably delicious this one’s going to be a new favorite in your kitchen. Dig in and enjoy every creamy, savory forkful!