Name: Shrimp and Cheese Ravioli in Garlic Cream Sauce with Fresh Herbs and Cracked Pepper
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz shrimp and cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen); 2 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking ravioli if desired)

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This Shrimp and Cheese Ravioli in Garlic Cream Sauce is a rich, indulgent pasta dish that brings together tender ravioli, juicy shrimp, and a velvety garlic cream sauce. Finished with fresh herbs and cracked black pepper, it’s a comforting yet elegant meal suitable for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers restaurant-quality flavor with simple steps you can follow at home. The creamy garlic sauce enhances the delicate flavors of shrimp and cheese-filled pasta, making each bite irresistibly smooth and savory. It’s perfect for date nights, family dinners, or impressing guests without excessive effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Cheese ravioli (fresh or store-bought)
Butter
Garlic (minced)
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Fresh parsley or basil (chopped)
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

Directions

Cook the ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook ravioli according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the garlic cream sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan and cook until thickened.
Combine: Add the cooked ravioli and shrimp to the sauce. Toss gently to coat.
Finish: Season with cracked black pepper, fresh herbs, and optional lemon zest or red pepper flakes.
Serve: Plate immediately while hot, with extra Parmesan and herbs on top if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spinach ravioli: Use spinach-ricotta ravioli for a slightly lighter option.
Add vegetables: Toss in baby spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for more texture and flavor.
Spicy version: Increase red pepper flakes for added heat.
No cream: Substitute with half-and-half or a cashew cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency. Freezing is not recommended, as cream sauces tend to separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ravioli?

Yes, frozen ravioli works well—just cook according to package instructions before adding to the sauce.

What type of shrimp should I use?

Medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined, work best. You can use fresh or thawed frozen shrimp.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep components in advance and assemble quickly when ready to serve.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Simmer gently and avoid high heat. Stir constantly when adding cheese to ensure smoothness.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not unless gluten-free ravioli is used.

Can I substitute the cheese in the ravioli?

Yes, goat cheese or ricotta-spinach fillings are great alternatives.

What herbs go best with this dish?

Parsley, basil, and a hint of thyme complement the creamy and seafood elements beautifully.

Can I omit the shrimp?

Yes, the ravioli and cream sauce alone make a delicious vegetarian meal.

How do I make it more lemony?

Add lemon juice or zest during the final step to brighten the dish.

What can I serve with this?

A side of garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light salad pairs perfectly.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Cheese Ravioli in Garlic Cream Sauce is a luscious, elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Its rich, creamy base paired with delicate shrimp and pasta makes it a comfort food classic with gourmet appeal. Serve it hot, garnished with herbs, and enjoy every bite.

Shrimp and Cheese Ravioli in Garlic Cream Sauce with Fresh Herbs and Cracked Pepper

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Tender homemade or store-bought shrimp and cheese ravioli tossed in a rich garlic cream sauce, finished with fresh herbs and cracked black pepper for a luxurious seafood pasta dish.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ravioli according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes. Season with salt and cracked black pepper to taste.
Gently add cooked ravioli to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, thyme (if using), and additional cracked black pepper.
Serve immediately while hot.