Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce
If you’re looking for a dish that sings with flavor and comfort, you’ve come to the right place! This Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce has become a cherished favorite in my home. It’s creamy, dreamy, and just oozing with deliciousness. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish comes together effortlessly and satisfies everyone at the table.
The combination of tender shrimp, cheesy tortellini, and a rich garlic sauce makes this recipe truly special. Plus, it’s one of those meals that feels fancy but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this delightful dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy sauce and cheesy tortellini—this is a meal everyone can enjoy!
- Gourmet Flavor at Home: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a restaurant-quality dish without breaking the bank.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This recipe calls for things you might already have in your pantry or fridge, making it easy to whip up any day of the week.
For the Shrimp
- all-purpose seasoning for shrimp (I used Lawry’s seasoning salt and Mrs. Dash garlic & herb.)
- 2 lbs. large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail-off)
For the Tortellini and Sauce
- 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini (I used Buitoni)
- 1 tbsp. olive or grapeseed oil
- 1/3 cup dry white apple vinegar
- 8 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp. minced garlic
- 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 6 oz. seafood or chicken stock
- 4 oz. cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 5 oz. fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:
- Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option!
- Add more veggies: Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor.
- Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist on the sauce.
- Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce calories while still keeping that creamy goodness.
How to Make Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by seasoning your shrimp with all-purpose seasoning. This step is crucial as it infuses flavor into the shrimp right from the start.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
In a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Sear the shrimp in batches for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking locks in their juiciness!
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low after removing the shrimp from the skillet. Deglaze with apple vinegar—this brings all those lovely browned bits into play! Then add butter and minced garlic; cook until fragrant (about 3 minutes). Stir in flour until dissolved; this will thicken our sauce beautifully.
Step 4: Create Creamy Goodness
Pour in seafood stock, then whisk in cream cheese until smooth (no lumps allowed!). Next, stir in heavy cream and dried basil; let simmer uncovered for about 5-7 minutes while stirring frequently—this allows flavors to meld perfectly.
Step 5: Cook Tortellini
Meanwhile, cook your tortellini according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain them well—they will soak up that delicious sauce later!
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add fresh spinach to your sauce; stir until it wilts down beautifully! Then toss in red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Finally, gently fold in your cooked tortellini and seared shrimp until everything is coated well.
Serve this Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce warm, maybe with some crusty bread on the side to mop up every last bit of that heavenly sauce! Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce
Making a delicious Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is all about attention to detail and a bit of love in the kitchen. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and spinach not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color to your dish. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in achieving that restaurant-quality taste.
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Don’t overcook the shrimp: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque; this usually takes only 1-2 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them!
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Simmer the sauce gently: After adding the heavy cream and cream cheese, keep the heat low while simmering. This prevents the sauce from scorching and helps maintain a creamy texture.
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Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to saltiness and spice. Taste your sauce before adding salt, as the Parmesan cheese can contribute additional saltiness.
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Serve immediately for best results: This dish tastes best when served fresh. If you let it sit too long, the tortellini may soak up too much sauce, so serve it hot right after mixing.
How to Serve Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce
Presenting your Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce beautifully can elevate your dining experience. Here are some suggestions for making your dish look as good as it tastes!
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkle some finely chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Lemon wedges: Serve alongside lemon wedges for a zesty touch that complements the garlic sauce beautifully.
- Extra Parmesan: Offering additional freshly grated Parmesan on the side allows guests to customize their servings.
Side Dishes
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Garlic Bread: A classic companion, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition while balancing out the meal’s flavors.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a crunchy texture and pairs well with the creamy sauce without overpowering it.
With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delightful Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce! Enjoy every bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week. Whether you’re making it for a busy work week or a gathering, these storage tips will keep your dish fresh and tasty.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 3 days for the best flavor and texture.
- If reheating, add a splash of cream or stock to maintain moisture.
Freezing
- Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
- Portion the tortellini and sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date!
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of cream or stock to loosen the sauce.
- Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce?
Yes! Frozen shrimp can be used; just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This will ensure even cooking and prevent a watery sauce.
How do I make Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and check your seasoning blends. You can also substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.
What can I serve with Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce?
Pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that balances flavors perfectly!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce as much as I do! It’s such a comforting and satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and laughter!
Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in a delightful Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce that brings gourmet flavors right to your kitchen! This creamy and comforting dish combines tender shrimp, cheesy tortellini, and a rich garlic-infused sauce, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time, you can impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile—customize it to suit your family’s taste by swapping proteins or adding veggies. Serve it warm with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delectable sauce!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs large shrimp (peeled, deveined)
- 20 oz refrigerated three cheese tortellini
- 1 tbsp olive or grapeseed oil
- 1/3 cup dry apple vinegar
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 6 oz seafood or chicken stock
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Season shrimp with all-purpose seasoning.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque; remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat and deglaze pan with apple vinegar; add butter and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir in flour, then add stock and cream cheese until smooth. Add heavy cream and basil; simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain well.
- Add spinach to the sauce until wilted, then stir in red pepper flakes and Parmesan until melted.
- Gently fold in the cooked tortellini and seared shrimp until well coated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 710
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 48g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
