Description
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Tortellini
Indulge in this creamy, garlicky pasta dish featuring tender shrimp and cheese-filled tortellini—perfect for a comforting yet elegant dinner.
Ingredients
For the Dish:
12 oz (340g) cheese tortellini
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Add Italian seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper.
Combine Everything:
Add the cooked tortellini and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Let it heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Serve:
Plate the creamy shrimp tortellini and garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Enjoy it warm!
Enjoy!
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Tortellini is a quick and delicious recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. First, prep all ingredients: mince garlic, grate Parmesan, chop parsley, and pat shrimp dry. Start boiling a large pot of generously salted water for the tortellini. As it heats, cook the shrimp in olive oil in a large skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan for a proper sear. Remove shrimp and set aside. The tortellini should now be cooking. In the same skillet, make the sauce by sautéing garlic briefly before adding cream and Parmesan. Stir constantly over medium heat until the cheese melts and the sauce coats the back of a spoon. Finally, combine drained tortellini and shrimp with the sauce, tossing gently to heat through.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Serve it with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or steamed asparagus. For a heartier meal, add a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra creamy sauce. A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the garlic and shrimp perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook tortellini in salted boiling water. Sauté seasoned shrimp in olive oil and set aside. In the same pan, cook garlic, then add heavy cream and Parmesan to create a sauce. Combine cooked tortellini and shrimp with the sauce, toss, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
- How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less thick.
- Can I use a different pasta? Absolutely. Cheese ravioli or fettuccine work well, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore sauciness.
- What if my sauce is too thin? Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce, or create a slurry with 1 tsp cornstarch and 1 tbsp water, then whisk into the simmering sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they will become rubbery. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Do not add the Parmesan cheese to a boiling sauce, as it can become grainy. Ensure the heat is at medium when incorporating it.
- Never rinse cooked tortellini after draining, as the starch helps the creamy sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Do not under-salt the pasta water, as it is a primary seasoning opportunity for the tortellini.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Tortellini masterfully combines simplicity with decadent flavor, making it an ideal choice for both busy evenings and dinner parties. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Its versatility with sides and substitutions ensures it can become a cherished staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!