Holiday Seafood Spaghetti with Salmon Meatballs in Dreamy White Sauce

Imagine this: it’s a cozy winter evening, soft music playing, and the smell of garlic, butter, and herbs fills your kitchen. You’re about to dig into a bowl of rich, creamy spaghetti laced with tender bits of seafood and the juiciest, most flavorful salmon meatballs you’ve ever had. Sounds dreamy, right? This isn’t your everyday pasta dish—this one feels special. It’s luxurious without being fussy, and trust me, it tastes like something you’d get at a fancy coastal restaurant… only you made it right at home. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just craving something indulgent and comforting, this dish is a total game-changer. So grab a glass of wine, get comfy, and let’s make something amazing together.

Why You’ll Love Holiday Seafood Spaghetti with Salmon Meatballs in Dreamy 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: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.

Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.

Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.

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 with Salmon Meatballs in Dreamy White Sauce

Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with a medley of simple ingredients that come together to create something truly unforgettable. Let’s break it down:

Salmon Fillet: The base of our meatballs—tender, flaky, and full of healthy omega-3s. It adds a beautiful richness and depth of flavor.

Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and adds a bit of texture. Panko or regular—use what you have on hand.

Egg: Keeps everything together, so your meatballs stay firm yet moist.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty kick that pairs beautifully with both salmon and the creamy sauce.

Garlic and Shallots: The aromatic duo that lays the flavor foundation—fragrant, savory, and irresistible.

Seafood Mix (shrimp, scallops, or your favorite combo): Adds a fun variety of textures and flavors to the spaghetti. Feel free to use fresh or frozen—whatever’s most convenient.

Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce so luxuriously creamy. It’s rich, smooth, and dreamy.

Butter: Because everything’s better with a little butter. It adds richness and helps build the base of the sauce.

Spaghetti: The perfect pasta for this dish. It catches all that creamy sauce between its strands, delivering flavor in every bite.

Lemon Zest and Juice: Brightens everything up and cuts through the richness with a lovely citrusy pop.

Fresh Herbs (like dill, parsley, or thyme): These add color, freshness, and that “wow” restaurant-quality finish.

(Note: The full ingredient 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

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the salmon meatballs, and get a large pot of salted water boiling for your spaghetti.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan, minced garlic, chopped herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until just combined. You want the mixture to hold together but still be tender.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This will make cleanup easier, too!

Assemble the Dish

Form the salmon mixture into small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Try to keep them evenly sized so they cook at the same rate.

Cook to Perfection

Bake the meatballs for about 12–15 minutes, until golden and cooked through. While they’re baking, cook your spaghetti until al dente, and start on the sauce.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and shallots until soft and fragrant. Add in your seafood mix and cook until just opaque. Pour in the cream, sprinkle in some parmesan, and stir until smooth and thickened slightly. Add lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice to finish.

Bring It All Together

Drain the pasta and toss it gently in the creamy sauce. Add the baked salmon meatballs on top or fold them in, depending on your preference. Give everything a gentle toss and a final sprinkle of herbs.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with extra lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and maybe a little more parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. This is one of those meals you’ll want to savor slowly.

How to Serve Holiday Seafood Spaghetti with Salmon Meatballs in Dreamy White Sauce

This dish shines on its own, but if you’re feeling like going all out, here are some serving ideas:

Fresh Salads: A simple arugula or spinach salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce beautifully.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for scooping up every last drop of that dreamy sauce.

Lemon Wedges: Keep a few on the side for those who love an extra citrusy zing.

Steamed Veggies: Think asparagus, green beans, or broccolini—anything bright and fresh.

As a Standalone: Honestly, this dish doesn’t need anything. It’s rich, hearty, and complete all on its own.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Make the meatballs a day ahead and store them uncooked in the fridge. They’ll be ready to pop in the oven whenever you need them.

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.

Dietary Adjustments: Swap the cream for a plant-based version, or use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.

Double the Batch: These salmon meatballs freeze wonderfully. Just freeze before baking, and cook from frozen whenever you’re ready.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use canned salmon for the meatballs?
A1: Absolutely! Just make sure to drain it well and remove any bones or skin.

Q2: Can I use frozen seafood?
A2: Yes, just thaw it fully and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy.

Q4: Can I freeze the salmon meatballs?
A4: Definitely. Freeze them before or after baking—either way works well.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Warm it on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes! Just use a bigger skillet for the sauce and a larger baking tray for the meatballs.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for a pescatarian diet?
A7: Absolutely. It’s pescatarian-friendly and full of seafood goodness.

Q8: What side dishes go well with this recipe?
A8: Garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad are perfect companions.

Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: Use whole grain or legume-based pasta, and lighten the sauce with half-and-half or milk.

Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?
A10: A heavy skillet for the sauce and a sturdy baking sheet for the meatballs. A pasta pot with a strainer makes things even easier.

Conclusion

There you have it—Holiday Seafood Spaghetti with Salmon Meatballs in Dreamy White Sauce. It’s creamy, cozy, a little fancy, and totally unforgettable. Whether it’s a holiday dinner

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