I remember the first time I made this lobster and shrimp pasta recipe at home. It was a cold Sunday evening, and we were celebrating a small anniversary, nothing fancy, just something warm, comforting, and a little indulgent. I had lobster tails in the freezer, a bag of jumbo shrimp, and a craving for something creamy, garlicky, and soul-satisfying. That night, the kitchen filled with the aroma of seafood, white wine, and herbs, and it was pure magic.
This dish is the perfect balance between elegance and ease. You don’t need to wait for a special occasion to enjoy it, though it certainly feels like one. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party, cooking a romantic meal, or just want to treat yourself, this lobster and shrimp pasta recipe brings a little coastal luxury right to your plate.
Made with real butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan, it wraps tender seafood in a rich, savory sauce that clings beautifully to pasta. And yes, it’s surprisingly easy to pull together, even on a weeknight. Pair it with crusty bread and a chilled glass of wine, and you’ve got something unforgettable.
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Why This Lobster and Shrimp Pasta Recipe Is So Good
This recipe stands out because it lets the seafood shine. Unlike overly complicated versions that mask the natural flavor of lobster and shrimp, this one enhances it, with just the right balance of richness and acidity. The garlic butter base builds a deep flavor that’s elevated with white wine and finished with a light touch of cream. The result? A velvety, restaurant-style sauce that doesn’t overpower.
I also love how customizable this dish is. Want to skip the cream? Use a lemony olive oil base instead. Avoiding dairy? Coconut milk works in a pinch, giving it a unique tropical twist. Need it gluten-free? Just swap the pasta. You can even spice it up with red chili flakes or add greens like spinach or kale for a pop of color and nutrition.
And the best part? The cooking process itself feels indulgent. It’s the kind of recipe that invites you to pour a glass of wine, play your favorite playlist, and enjoy every step—from sautéing the garlic to tossing the glossy noodles at the end.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner wanting to impress, this lobster and shrimp pasta recipe has you covered.
Recipe Card
Lobster and Shrimp Pasta Recipes
Cuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy4
servings20
minutes30
minutes600
kcalElevate your dinner with this lobster and shrimp pasta recipe. Luxuriously creamy and bursting with seafood flavor, this dish will make any occasion special. Perfectly cooked shrimp and succulent lobster meat combine in a rich, velvety sauce that pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta.
Ingredients
- Pasta
12 oz fettuccine or linguine
- Seafood:
1 lb lobster tails, cooked and chopped
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Sauce
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped parsley
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Seafood: In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. Repeat the same with cooked lobster, warming it gently.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then deglaze with white wine, scraping up any bits from the pan. Let it reduce by half.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan, salt, and pepper, mixing until smooth. Squeeze in lemon juice.
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta, shrimp, and lobster to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes, if using.
- Serve Immediately: Plate and enjoy this creamy, decadent seafood pasta.
Notes
- For a less creamy version, replace half of the heavy cream with chicken broth.
- You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Tips for the perfect Lobster and Shrimp Pasta Recipes
- Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh shrimp and lobster give the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Seafood: Shrimp and lobster cook quickly, so be attentive to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to thin it out.
- Cook Pasta Just Shy of Al Dente: Always undercook your pasta by 1 or 2 minutes so it can finish cooking in the sauce. This allows the pasta to soak up all that rich flavor while staying perfectly firm.
- Finish with Fresh Lemon Zest: Right before serving, a sprinkle of lemon zest and a squeeze of juice brighten the entire dish. It cuts through the richness and brings the flavors to life.
Delicious Twists on the Classic Lobster and Shrimp Pasta Recipe
1. Creamy Cajun Lobster and Shrimp Pasta
This spicy version adds a bold Southern kick. Season your shrimp and lobster with a generous Cajun spice blend before cooking. Use heavy cream for the sauce, and toss in diced bell peppers and a pinch of smoked paprika. It’s rich, fiery, and deeply comforting, like a New Orleans hug in a bowl.
2. Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta with Shrimp and Lobster
If you prefer a lighter option that’s still packed with flavor, skip the cream and use a lemon-garlic butter sauce. Sauté the seafood in butter and olive oil, then add fresh garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Finish with parsley and cracked black pepper. It’s zippy, fresh, and incredibly elegant.
3. Tomato-Based Lobster and Shrimp Pasta
For a rustic, Mediterranean spin, use a slow-simmered tomato sauce made with crushed San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, and basil. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the seafood, and a pinch of chili flakes adds a subtle heat. This version pairs beautifully with linguine or bucatini.
4. Lobster and Shrimp Alfredo
Take the indulgence up a notch by swapping in a classic Alfredo sauce made with butter, cream, and Parmesan. Add a dash of nutmeg and white pepper to complement the seafood. This version is decadently smooth, with each bite melting in your mouth.
FAQs
Yes, but make sure to properly thaw and drain the seafood before cooking to avoid excess water in the sauce.
Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti work best, but feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.
Absolutely! Consider adding mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream.
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and cook the pasta and seafood when you’re ready to serve.
One Last Bite: Make This Lobster and Shrimp Pasta Tonight
There’s something undeniably magical about a bowl of creamy, buttery pasta loaded with sweet lobster and tender shrimp. This lobster and shrimp pasta recipe delivers that restaurant-quality feel right at your dinner table, without needing a culinary degree or a trip to the coast. It’s indulgent, comforting, and special enough to impress guests, yet simple enough to pull together on a busy weeknight.
I love how the lemon zest brightens every bite, how the shrimp add a perfect juicy contrast to the richness of the sauce, and how the pasta ties everything together into one decadent dish. Whether you’re making it for date night, a small family celebration, or just because you need a little luxury in your life, this recipe never disappoints.
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