If you’re craving a restaurant-quality Italian seafood dish that’s surprisingly simple to make at home, this Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture delicate pillows of ravioli filled with succulent shrimp and lobster, smothered in a velvety garlic butter sauce that’s rich, comforting, and bursting with flavor. It’s an indulgent celebration of the sea that’s perfect for a special dinner or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort but maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, making this shrimp and lobster ravioli an unforgettable experience. The combination of fresh seafood, creamy sauce, and aromatic herbs keeps it both elegant and approachable.
- Shrimp and lobster ravioli (9 oz): The star of the dish, offering a hearty, luscious filling that melts in your mouth.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Provides the silky base for the sauce without overpowering the seafood.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds an irresistible aroma and subtle pungency that elevates the sauce.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Brings richness and a smooth texture, making the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Introduces a nutty saltiness that enhances every bite.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/8 teaspoon): Basic seasonings that balance and highlight the other flavors.
- Red pepper flakes (pinch, optional): Adds a gentle kick, perfect if you like a hint of heat.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): For a bright, herbaceous garnish that cuts through the richness.
- Lemon wedges (optional): Serve on the side to add a fresh, zesty contrast that wakes up the palate.
How to Make Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ravioli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil – this step is crucial to ensure your ravioli doesn’t stick and cooks evenly. Add the shrimp and lobster ravioli directly from the package and cook according to the instructions, usually about three to four minutes until they float to the top. Once done, carefully drain the ravioli, and set them aside to prepare for the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter gently. Add the minced garlic and sauté for one to two minutes until it releases its fragrant aroma but doesn’t brown – burned garlic would make the sauce bitter. This garlic-infused butter is the base of the sauce, infusing it with warmth and depth.
Step 3: Add Cream and Cheese to the Sauce
Carefully stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. Then add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and, if you like a little spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Keep stirring for three to four minutes; the sauce should be smooth, creamy, and just thick enough to coat the ravioli beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Ravioli with Sauce
Gently add the cooked ravioli to the skillet and softly toss to coat each piece evenly in the luscious garlic butter sauce. This step ensures every bite has the perfect balance of creamy goodness and tender seafood filling.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your shrimp and lobster ravioli immediately, with lemon wedges on the side for those who want to add a bright citrus squeeze. This final touch cuts through the richness and elevates the entire dish.
How to Serve Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch, adding a lovely herbal note and vibrant green color. If you’re feeling fancy, a few lemon zest shavings or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can lift the dish even further. For a hint of crunch, a light dusting of toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts would be delightful too.
Side Dishes
Serve your ravioli alongside a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is divine for soaking up any leftover sauce. If you prefer vegetables, roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach complement the seafood perfectly without overwhelming the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, plate the ravioli individually on warm plates, spooning sauce artistically around the edges. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers to impress guests. You might also serve the sauce on the side in a small pitcher, allowing everyone to decide how saucy they want their ravioli. This adds an elegant, personal touch to the dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover shrimp and lobster ravioli with creamy garlic butter sauce should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated promptly. Consume within two days to maintain the best taste and texture. Keep the ravioli and sauce together to let the flavors meld, but be gentle when reheating to avoid breaking the delicate pasta.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze the ravioli before cooking, spread them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. The sauce, however, doesn’t freeze as well due to the cream content. It’s better to prepare the sauce fresh when you reheat the frozen ravioli later.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat to avoid curdling the sauce or overcooking the ravioli. Adding a splash of cream or broth can help loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can unevenly heat and make the pasta rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp and lobster ravioli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to follow the package cooking instructions carefully, as frozen ravioli may take a minute or two longer to cook. Make sure they are fully thawed unless the package states they can be cooked from frozen.
Is there a way to make the sauce lighter?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk instead of heavy cream to reduce calories and fat. Just keep in mind this will result in a thinner sauce with a milder texture.
Can I add other seafood to this dish?
Definitely! Adding sautéed shrimp, scallops, or even crab meat makes the dish heartier and even more flavorful, turning it into a seafood lover’s dream.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Look for gluten-free ravioli options at specialty stores or make your own gluten-free pasta at home. Ensure the sauce ingredients are also gluten-free, which in this case, they typically are.
What wine pairs well with Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe?
A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a light Sauvignon Blanc with citrus notes complements the creamy garlic butter sauce and delicate seafood flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels luxurious but comes together so effortlessly. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or an elegant dinner party, bringing smiles and satisfied sighs around the table. Once you try it, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to seafood pasta dishes — trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A delicious and creamy Italian-American seafood pasta featuring tender shrimp and lobster ravioli tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, enhanced with Parmesan cheese and a hint of spice, perfect for an elegant yet easy-to-make main course.
Ingredients
Ravioli
- 1 (9 oz) package shrimp and lobster ravioli (store-bought or homemade)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish and Serving
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and lobster ravioli and cook according to package instructions, usually 3–4 minutes. Drain carefully and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare the garlic butter sauce: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to brown it to avoid bitterness.
- Create the creamy sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly and becomes smooth.
- Combine ravioli with sauce: Add the cooked shrimp and lobster ravioli to the skillet with the creamy garlic butter sauce. Gently toss to thoroughly coat each ravioli in the sauce without breaking them.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately with optional lemon wedges on the side to brighten the rich flavors.
Notes
- For a heartier dish, add sautéed shrimp or scallops along with the ravioli.
- To lighten the sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Store-bought ravioli is widely available in the refrigerated pasta section of most grocery stores for convenience.
- Be careful not to overcook ravioli to maintain delicate texture.
