Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious, you’ve found it in this Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce! This recipe is a family favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you. It pairs creamy cheese tortellini with juicy shrimp and a rich garlic sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, this dish is sure to impress your loved ones without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.

Not only is this meal packed with flavor, but it also comes together in just 30 minutes. You’ll love how simple and wholesome the ingredients are. Trust me; once you try this Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce, it might just become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for those busy evenings!
• Family-friendly: With its creamy sauce and tender shrimp, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and just combine it with the tortellini when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously versatile: Adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs.
• Comfort food at its best: The combination of cheese tortellini and garlic sauce creates a warm hug on a plate!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh, wholesome ingredients is one of the joys of cooking! For this Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce, you’ll need:

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

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

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

Variations

One of the best things about cooking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try using cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a tasty alternative.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or zucchini for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
• Lighten up: Substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for heavy cream if you’re looking for a lighter version.
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten up the dish even more—just sprinkle them on before serving!

How to Make Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Start by seasoning your shrimp with all-purpose seasoning. This step adds flavor right from the beginning!

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

In a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Sear your seasoned shrimp in two batches for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Remove them from the pan and set aside—this step ensures your shrimp stays tender!

Step 3: Create Your Flavors

Lower the heat to medium-low and deglaze your skillet with apple vinegar—this adds depth to your sauce! Next, add 6 tablespoons of butter along with minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Adding flour here helps thicken our sauce later.

Step 4: Whisk It Together

Stir in seafood or chicken stock followed by softened cream cheese until smooth. Then pour in heavy cream and sprinkle in dried basil. Simmer uncovered while stirring frequently; this allows all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Cook Your Tortellini

While your sauce simmers, cook your tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them well—this will be tossed into that lovely sauce shortly!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, add fresh spinach to your sauce until wilted, then stir in red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the cooked tortellini and seared shrimp back into the skillet—give everything a gentle stir so each piece gets coated in that creamy goodness.

Serve warm and enjoy every bite of this delightful Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce!

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

Making Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use fresh shrimp – Fresh shrimp not only taste better but also enhance the overall texture of the dish. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a mild smell for the best results.

• Don’t rush the garlic – Cooking the garlic until fragrant is crucial. This step allows the flavors to develop, creating a rich and aromatic base for your sauce.

• Adjust creaminess – If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute some with vegetable broth. This keeps the dish flavorful without being overly rich.

• Taste as you go – Always taste your sauce before adding more seasoning. This ensures that you’re balancing flavors correctly and prevents over-salting.

• Cook tortellini al dente – Follow package instructions carefully to achieve that perfect bite. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its delightful chewiness.

How to Serve Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

Presenting your Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or basil – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and a burst of flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

• Lemon zest – A touch of lemon zest can brighten up the dish, enhancing all those wonderful garlicky flavors without overpowering them.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy tortellini.

• Steamed asparagus – This light and crisp side provides a fresh crunch that balances out the richness of the pasta while adding beautiful color to your plate.

• Caprese salad – Featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, this classic Italian salad brings a refreshing element that pairs wonderfully with your main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy an impressive meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is perfect for meal prep, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. You can easily store leftovers or prepare components in advance to save time!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover tortellini and sauce in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To preserve the best flavor, try to store the shrimp and tortellini separately from the sauce if possible.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to adjust consistency.
• Microwave reheating is also an option; cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious meal:

Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights tortellini, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure to adjust cooking times according to package directions.

What goes well with Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce?

To complement your Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce, consider serving it with a side salad or garlic bread. A light white wine or sparkling water pairs nicely too!

How do I ensure my shrimp are cooked perfectly?

For perfectly cooked shrimp, look for them to turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking by searing them just until they are no longer translucent—this usually takes about 1-2 minutes per side.

Can I make Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce without cream?

Yes! For a lighter version, you could substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or a non-dairy creamer. The texture will be different but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce! It’s special not only for its creamy goodness but also because it brings together simple ingredients into a delightful dish that can be enjoyed any night of the week. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your cooking experience!