“`html
If you are craving an indulgent seafood pasta that feels like a special occasion in every bite, the Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dreamy dish features delicate homemade ravioli generously stuffed with tender shrimp and sweet lobster meat, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce that is rich, velvety, and brightened with just a hint of lemon. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself or impress guests with a plate that tastes as exquisite as it looks, bringing the luxury of the sea right to your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so special. From the fresh seafood that brings a touch of sweetness to the creamy ricotta that adds smoothness, each component is straightforward but essential for creating an unforgettable meal.
- Cooked shrimp (1/2 lb): Provides sweet, briny seafood flavor and a tender bite for the ravioli filling.
- Cooked lobster meat (1/2 lb): Adds luxurious richness and delicate texture that elevates the filling.
- Ricotta cheese (1/2 cup): Brings creaminess and binds the filling perfectly without overpowering the seafood.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Offers a savory, nutty depth to enrich the filling’s taste.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous brightness.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Enhances the seafood’s natural flavors with a subtle citrus zing.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and highlight the components.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base for the ravioli dough, providing structure and chewiness.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the dough ingredients together and add richness.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Contributes a silky texture and slight fruitiness to the dough.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the dough’s flavor.
- Water (as needed): Adjusts dough consistency for the perfect elasticity.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Creates the base of the creamy garlic butter sauce, giving it a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Minced garlic (4 cloves): Imparts a bold, aromatic punch that defines the sauce.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce’s texture.
- Chicken broth (1/4 cup): Lightens the sauce and layers in subtle savoriness.
- Lemon juice (1/2 teaspoon): Brightens up the sauce with fresh acidity.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): A final touch of freshness and color to finish the dish.
How to Make Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ravioli Dough
Start by setting your work surface with the flour and creating a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well and add olive oil along with a pinch of salt. Gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs, kneading gently until you achieve a smooth and elastic dough. If it feels too dry, add a splash of water to bring it together perfectly. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to relax the gluten, which will make rolling it out much easier.
Step 2: Make the Shrimp and Lobster Filling
In a medium bowl, combine chopped cooked shrimp, lobster meat, ricotta, grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, and lemon zest. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste and stir gently until everything is well incorporated. This filling is the heart of your ravioli, balancing the creamy cheese with the delicate sweetness of the seafood.
Step 3: Roll Out the Pasta Sheets
After the dough has rested, divide it into two equal portions. Using a rolling pin (or a pasta machine if you have one), roll each portion into thin sheets—aim for about 1/16 inch thickness so the ravioli aren’t too thick but still sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Ravioli
Place small spoonfuls of the seafood filling spaced evenly on one pasta sheet. Carefully lay the second sheet over the top, gently pressing around each spoonful to seal out air and prevent bursting during cooking. Using a knife or a ravioli cutter, cut out individual ravioli squares and press the edges with a fork to ensure a tight seal.
Step 5: Cook the Ravioli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in the ravioli and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they float to the surface—a sign they’re perfectly cooked. Drain them gently using a slotted spoon and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes wonderfully fragrant but not browned. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes to thicken to a luxurious consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to make the flavors sing.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Carefully add the cooked ravioli to the sauce, gently tossing to coat each piece evenly in the creamy garlic butter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot for an unforgettable dining experience.
How to Serve Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of fresh parsley is both visually stunning and adds a bright herbal note that contrasts perfectly with the richness of the sauce. For a bit of visual excitement and a mild crunch, consider adding some toasted pine nuts or a light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese.
Side Dishes
This dish shines best when paired with simple, complementary sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness, while some roasted asparagus or steamed baby spinach adds a fresh, green element. Crusty artisan bread is also perfect for sopping up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a touch of elegance, arrange the ravioli in a circular pattern on a warmed plate, drizzling the sauce artistically over the top. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a restaurant-quality presentation that will wow your guests. Serving individual portions in shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a wedge of lemon on the side makes it feel even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover ravioli in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days. Store the sauce separately to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to prepare the Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe ahead of time, you can freeze the uncooked ravioli on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the sauce as it may separate upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat cooked ravioli, gently warm them in a skillet with a splash of water or broth over medium-low heat until heated through, then add sauce to warm together. Avoid using the microwave to preserve texture and flavor integrity.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp and lobster for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before chopping to avoid excess moisture in the filling, which could make the ravioli soggy.
Is it possible to buy pre-made ravioli dough to save time?
Yes, store-bought fresh or frozen pasta sheets can be a convenient shortcut, letting you focus on perfecting the filling and sauce without compromising on taste.
What type of wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp, unoaked white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly chilled Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the seafood pastas and creamy garlic butter sauce, enhancing the delicate flavors.
Can I substitute lobster with crab meat?
Yes, crab meat is a wonderful alternative and works wonderfully in the filling, lending a sweet, tender texture that pairs nicely with the shrimp and sauce.
How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking during preparation?
Lightly dust your work surface and pasta sheets with flour before assembling, and use a gentle touch when pressing the edges to seal. Keeping the dough cool also helps prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
The Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is a celebration of luxury and comfort all in one plate. From the homemade pasta to the decadent seafood filling and the irresistibly creamy sauce, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you will want to make it again and again—perfect for special dinners or whenever you feel like treating yourself to something truly spectacular.
“`
Print
Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This decadent Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce combines succulent seafood with rich, creamy flavors wrapped in delicate homemade pasta. The ravioli is filled with a savory blend of cooked shrimp, lobster meat, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, then finished with a luscious garlic butter cream sauce accented with fresh lemon and parsley. Perfect for an elegant dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Ravioli Filling
- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Ravioli Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- Water, as needed
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Place the flour on a clean surface and form a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well, then add olive oil and a pinch of salt. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs and knead until a smooth dough forms, adding water if necessary. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped cooked shrimp, lobster, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.
- Roll Out the Dough: After resting, divide the dough and roll it out thinly into sheets suitable for ravioli making.
- Assemble the Ravioli: Place small spoonfuls of the seafood filling onto one sheet of dough, leaving space between each. Lay another sheet on top, press around each filling mound to seal, then cut out individual ravioli shapes and seal edges with a fork to ensure they do not open during cooking.
- Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop in the ravioli and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside gently.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, careful not to brown the garlic.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked ravioli to the sauce, gently tossing to coat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the dough is rolled out evenly thin but strong enough to hold the filling without breaking.
- Use fresh seafood for the best flavor and texture in the filling.
- Do not overcook the ravioli; floating to the surface is a good indicator they are ready.
- Gently handle cooked ravioli to prevent tearing.
- The sauce can be prepared ahead and gently reheated before tossing with ravioli.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute lobster and shrimp with mushrooms or spinach filling.
