Seafood and Beef Spaghetti: A Bold and Savory Delight!

Ready to spice up your pasta nights? This Seafood and Beef Spaghetti recipe brings together tender shrimp, savory beef, and a flavorful tomato sauce for a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe will impress even the pickiest eaters. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti:

• 12 oz (350g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 tbsp salt
• Water for boiling

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 lb (225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/2 tsp crushed red chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make It

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente, following the package instructions.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

1. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

1. In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula.
2. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Heat the remaining olive oil in the skillet. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes (or diced tomatoes) and tomato paste, stirring until combined.
3. Season with Italian seasoning, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

1. Return the cooked shrimp and beef to the skillet, stirring them into the sauce.
2. Toss in the cooked spaghetti, mixing well to coat the pasta with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to adjust the consistency if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Plate the pasta and top with fresh parsley or basil.
2. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why This Recipe Works

• A Unique Flavor Combination: The hearty beef and tender shrimp create a perfect balance of surf and turf.
• Quick and Simple: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy evenings.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.

Tips for the Best Results

1. Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp make a big difference in flavor.
2. Experiment with Herbs: Add fresh thyme or oregano for a twist on traditional Italian seasoning.
3. Toast the Tomato Paste: Cooking the tomato paste briefly before adding other ingredients enhances the sauce’s depth of flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp and beef?
Yes! Substitute shrimp with scallops or beef with ground turkey for a different flavor profile.

2. What can I serve with this dish?
This pasta pairs perfectly with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

Serving Ideas

Enhance your Seafood and Beef Spaghetti experience by serving it with:

• A side of toasted bruschetta.
• Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli for a healthy touch.
• A light, sparkling white wine to balance the rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

Seafood and Beef Spaghetti is a bold twist on a classic pasta dish. With its rich flavors, satisfying textures, and simple preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Try it tonight and bring a little gourmet flair to your table!