Description
Creamy Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
300g large shrimp
(peeled and deveined)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
250g cheese tortellini
(store-bought or homemade)
Water for boiling
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves
(minced)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
Chopped parsley
Grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the Tortellini:
Boil tortellini in salted water according to package instructions (usually 7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside
.
Sauté the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper, and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque
.
Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute)
.
Add chicken broth and heavy cream, and bring to a gentle simmer
.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, and continue to cook until the sauce thickens slightly
.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce
.
Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet and mix gently to combine
.
Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired
.
Enjoy:
Serve hot and savor every creamy, cheesy, and garlicky bite!
This creamy shrimp tortellini dish is rich, comforting, and perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, gather all ingredients. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water for the tortellini. While it heats, pat the shrimp dry and season. Cook the tortellini, but reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining. In a large skillet, sauté the shrimp until just cooked, then transfer to a plate. For the sauce, melt butter in the same skillet to capture the shrimp flavor. Cook garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the broth and cream, simmering for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly. Whisk in the Parmesan until melted. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time. Finally, toss the tortellini in the sauce, top with shrimp, and garnish.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a vegetable side, roasted asparagus or steamed green beans are excellent choices. To elevate the meal for guests, present it in a warm, shallow bowl with a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a family-style dinner, serve directly from the skillet with crusty garlic bread on the side.
How-to Summary
Boil and drain tortellini, reserving some pasta water. Sauté seasoned shrimp and set aside. In the same pan, make a garlic cream sauce with butter, garlic, broth, cream, and Parmesan. Thin sauce with pasta water if needed. Combine sauce, tortellini, and shrimp. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, fully thaw and pat them dry to avoid a watery sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? Half-and-half works but will yield a thinner sauce; avoid boiling it. For a dairy-free option, use full-fat coconut milk.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling? Keep the heat at a gentle simmer when adding dairy and cheese. Do not boil vigorously.
Can I make this ahead of time? The sauce can be made 1 day ahead, but pasta and shrimp are best cooked fresh to avoid mushiness.
What other proteins work? Diced chicken, scallops, or even Italian sausage are great alternatives to shrimp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp: They cook quickly and become rubbery. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Burning the garlic: Sauté minced garlic for only about 30-60 seconds on medium heat until fragrant. Burnt garlic turns bitter.
- Not reserving pasta water: The starchy water is crucial for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.
- Adding cheese to a boiling sauce: Remove the skillet from direct heat or turn it down low before whisking in the Parmesan to prevent a grainy texture.
Conclusion
This Creamy Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is a restaurant-quality meal achievable in under 30 minutes. The key lies in the simple technique of building layers of flavor in one skillet and balancing the rich sauce with perfectly cooked protein and pasta. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a consistently impressive and comforting dish that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary effort.