Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve come to the right place! This Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is one of my all-time favorites. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe also shines at family gatherings or date nights. The delightful combination of tender shrimp, cheesy tortellini, and rich garlic sauce creates a meal that everyone can enjoy. Trust me—once you make this dish, it will quickly become a regular on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy sauce and cheesy tortellini.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep some ingredients in advance to save time when cooking.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of garlic, cream cheese, and fresh spinach creates a deliciously rich flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You’ll find everything you need to create this scrumptious Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce right here:

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 Sauce

• 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

For the Tortellini

• 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini (I used Buitoni)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you want to switch things up or accommodate different tastes, here are some tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Creamy alternatives: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or oregano to enhance the flavor profile.

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 essential because it adds a burst of flavor right from the beginning.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive or grapeseed oil. Sear the shrimp in two batches for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside; they don’t need long to cook!

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

Lower the heat to medium-low and deglaze your skillet using apple vinegar—it brings out all those tasty bits stuck on the bottom! Add in 6 tablespoons of butter along with minced garlic, cooking until fragrant—around 3 minutes should do it.

Step 4: Create Creaminess

Stir in your flour until it’s fully dissolved. Then whisk in seafood or chicken stock followed by cream cheese until smooth and creamy without lumps. Next, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle dried basil before letting it simmer uncovered for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Cook Your Tortellini

While your sauce simmers away, cook your tortellini according to package instructions. Once done, drain them gently but keep them warm while you finish up that sauce!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add fresh spinach into your wonderful sauce until wilted; then stir in red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese until melted into deliciousness! Finally, toss in both your cooked tortellini and shrimp into that luscious sauce until everything is well coated.

Serve warm and enjoy this fantastic meal that brings everyone together at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will ensure your Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce turns out perfectly every time!

• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and spinach enhances the dish’s flavors and textures. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste, providing a vibrant and delicious meal.

• Proper Searing: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the shrimp. Searing them properly gives a wonderful flavor and prevents them from becoming rubbery.

• Whisking Technique: Whisking the cream cheese into the sauce ensures a smooth texture. This helps to avoid lumps and creates a rich, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the tortellini.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving! Adjusting seasoning at this stage can elevate your dish to new heights, ensuring that it’s just right for your palate.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the tortellini until just al dente allows it to absorb some of the sauce flavors without becoming mushy. This texture adds to the overall experience of the dish!

How to Serve Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

Presenting your Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is all about creating an inviting atmosphere. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic sauce, garlic bread is a classic side that pairs beautifully with this dish.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the creamy tortellini.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients, making your meal even more wholesome.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a crunchy texture that balances the creaminess of the pasta while adding vibrant color to your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with your delicious Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a delicious dinner in advance. With easy storage options, you can enjoy this creamy dish throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Shrimp Tortellini in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
• Stir occasionally and add a little cream or stock if the sauce has thickened too much.
• You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions you might have!

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce?

Yes! Frozen shrimp work well; just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even flavor and texture.

What type of tortellini is best for Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce?

I recommend using three cheese tortellini, but you can also choose spinach or mushroom varieties for added flavor.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten up Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reducing the amount of butter used in the sauce.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli to enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce as I do! It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative by adding your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!