Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

Save this recipe on:

Creamy, garlicky, and packed with juicy shrimp, this Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is my go-to comfort food when I need something rich and indulgent but still quick enough for a weeknight. I love how the tender cheese-filled tortellini balances out the buttery garlic sauce, while the shrimp adds that subtle sweetness and protein punch. It’s one of those dishes that makes everyone at the table go quiet—with mouths full and hearts full too.

This recipe was born out of one of those “throw something together” nights. I had a package of tortellini, a bag of frozen shrimp, and some garlic butter leftover from another meal. I sautéed everything together, splashed in some cream, and just like that—magic. Since then, I’ve refined the ingredients and steps, and now it’s one of my most requested dinners. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it as much as I do.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s fast, flavorful, and feels fancy without the fuss. The garlic butter sauce is creamy but not too heavy, coating every bite of pasta just right. The shrimp adds a savory depth that balances the richness of the sauce, and when combined with the chewy tortellini, it’s the kind of texture harmony I always crave. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it for a special date night or whip it up as a weeknight meal. It reheats beautifully for leftovers (if you even have any), and it always impresses.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

I prefer using cheese-filled tortellini because it complements the garlicky cream sauce best. You can use fresh, refrigerated tortellini for a softer bite or frozen if that’s what you have on hand—just adjust your cooking time slightly. If you’re feeling extra bold, try a spinach and ricotta version for added flavor complexity.

Options for Substitutions

• Protein: Not into shrimp? Swap it with grilled chicken, scallops, or even crispy pancetta.
• Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cream and vegan butter to make it dairy-free without sacrificing the richness.
• Low-Carb: Substitute the tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi for a lighter option.
• Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms to add nutrients and flavor.

---

Ingredients for this Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

• Shrimp – I use large peeled and deveined shrimp, which cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the garlic butter perfectly.
• Cheese Tortellini – Fresh or frozen, the cheese filling adds richness and balances the sauce.
• Butter – Essential for building the garlic base and giving the sauce its silky texture.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic makes all the difference, infusing the butter with bold flavor.
• Heavy Cream – For a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty depth and thickens the sauce beautifully.
• Spinach (optional) – A handful of fresh spinach gives the dish color and a touch of earthiness.
• Salt & Pepper – Season everything to taste, especially the shrimp.
• Italian Seasoning – A dash enhances the overall flavor with herbs like oregano and basil.

---

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, reduce heat to medium, and stir constantly until the sauce starts to thicken (about 3–5 minutes).

Step 4: Add Cheese and Spinach

Stir in grated Parmesan and let it melt into the sauce. If using spinach, toss it in now and cook until wilted.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and stir to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently mix.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, topped with freshly cracked pepper, more Parmesan, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. Optional: drizzle with a touch of lemon juice for brightness.

---

How Long to Prepare the Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

Prep Time: The prep is minimal—around 10 minutes. You just need to peel the shrimp (if not already done), mince the garlic, and measure out your ingredients. If you’re using pre-minced garlic and pre-cleaned shrimp, this step gets even faster.

Cooking Time: The cooking takes about 20 minutes. Boiling the tortellini and sautéing the shrimp can happen side by side to save time. The sauce itself thickens quickly and comes together in under 10 minutes, making this a true 30-minute meal from start to finish.

---

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce

• Don’t overcook the shrimp – Shrimp cook fast and turn rubbery if left too long. Watch for that pink color and curl.
• Use fresh garlic – Freshly minced garlic offers a much deeper, more aromatic flavor than jarred garlic.
• Reserve pasta water – It’s liquid gold. Adding a splash to your sauce can help loosen it up without watering it down.
• Warm your tortellini before combining – Toss them briefly in the pan to ensure they’re heated through and evenly coated.
• Taste and adjust – Don’t be afraid to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or Parmesan at the end.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Cooking the shrimp too early – If you add shrimp too soon and then keep cooking the sauce, they’ll overcook.
• Too much heat on the cream – Simmer gently or it may curdle. Medium heat is your friend.
• Forgetting to season in layers – Season the shrimp, season the sauce, and taste again before serving.
• Using too much Parmesan at once – It can clump if added all at once. Stir in gradually.
• Skipping the pasta water – Don’t forget it! It’s crucial for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.

---

What to Serve With Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce?

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

2. Simple Green Salad

A fresh mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a crisp contrast to the richness.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Try oven-roasted broccoli or asparagus for a healthy and colorful side.

4. White Wine

A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with creamy seafood pasta.

5. Lemon Zest Peas

Light and bright, peas sautéed with lemon zest and a touch of butter add a sweet pop.

---

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let the pasta cool completely, then store in an airtight container. It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Reheating: Warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Freezing: Not ideal, as the cream sauce can separate and the tortellini may get mushy. If you must freeze it, do so before adding the cream and shrimp, then add those fresh when reheating.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1.5 cups)

• Calories: 540
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Sodium: 740mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp turn opaque with a pinkish hue and curl into a “C” shape when fully cooked. Avoid overcooking, or they’ll get rubbery.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Just thaw them thoroughly before cooking and pat them dry to avoid excess water in the pan.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or even a mix of milk and a bit of cream cheese. Just note the sauce may be thinner.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Can I make this ahead?

You can prep the components ahead, but it’s best served fresh. Store the sauce, pasta, and shrimp separately if prepping in advance.

---

Conclusion

Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is that ideal blend of gourmet and easy. It tastes like something from a fine Italian restaurant but comes together in your own kitchen with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just want a comforting bowl of creamy pasta, this recipe delivers every time. Enjoy it with friends, family, or a glass of wine and a quiet evening—you can’t go wrong.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: