Shrimp Tortellini

Shrimp Tortellini

Looking for a dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and a bit fancy? Shrimp tortellini is your answer.

In just 15 minutes, you can serve a meal that looks like it took all day to prepare.

Shrimp Tortellini

Perfectly cooked tortellini and succulent shrimp are tossed in a creamy sauce, creating a delightful dish that’s sure to impress both family and guests on any busy weeknight.

Recipe Video

 

Why This Recipe Works

This shrimp tortellini recipe works because it's quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Additionally, this recipe is highly customizable—you can adjust the sauce's richness, add extra vegetables or herbs, or even swap the type of tortellini to suit personal preferences without compromising on taste or quality. Combining the savory flavors of shrimp with creamy cheese tortellini, this shrimp tortellini recipe creates a dish that's both indulgent and comforting without much effort.

Ingredients

Butter: 

Butter is used to sauté shrimp because of its rich flavor and ability to create a golden, caramelized exterior. Olive oil is a good alternative to butter, which is healthier and offers a lighter taste

Shrimp:

For this easy shrimp tortellini recipe, both fresh and high-quality frozen shrimp work well. If using frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Select shrimp that are firm and smell fresh. Clean by peeling and deveining them, removing the shell and dark vein along the back. Rinse under cold water and pat dry before sautéing in butter for the best flavor and texture.

Tomato:

Tomatoes add a burst of acidity, sweetness, and vibrant color to shrimp tortellini, balancing the richness of the sauce. If you don't like tomatoes, alternatives include red bell peppers for sweetness and crunch, sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor, or zucchini for a mild, fresh taste.

Garlic:

Garlic brings a robust, savory flavor to your creamy shrimp tortellini. If you prefer alternatives, you can use chives or shallots for a milder onion flavor. You can even omit the garlic entirely for a lighter taste profile.

Basil:

Basil adds a fresh and aromatic note to shrimp tortellini, infusing the dish with a hint of sweetness and peppery undertones. Alternatives include parsley for a similar herbaceous flavor or spinach for added greenery and mild earthiness.

Corn:

Corn adds sweetness, texture, and a pop of color to this shrimp and cheese tortellini. If preferred, alternatives like peas or diced bell peppers can offer similar sweetness and crunch to the dish

Flour:

Flour is added to shrimp tortellini recipes to thicken the sauce. A good alternative is cornstarch, which also acts as a thickener but without gluten. This substitution is particularly useful for those following a gluten-free diet or looking to vary the texture of their dish.

Salt and Pepper:

Salt and pepper are essential seasonings in shrimp tortellini. However, a number of different seasonings can be used to personalize the flavor profile. Smoked paprika and crushed red pepper flakes can bring out the heat, while parsley and oregano can add earthy aromatic notes.

Heavy Cream:

Heavy cream is an important factor in creating a rich and creamy shrimp tortellini sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp, adding luxurious texture and flavor. Good alternatives include half-and-half for a lighter version, whole milk with a bit of butter for richness, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option with a hint of sweetness. 

Cheese Tortellini:

Cheese tortellini serves as a delectable shrimp tortellini filling, offering a creamy and savory contrast to the seafood. You can use frozen or premade pasta by following the instructions on the package to cook an al dente tortellini. If you have the time, you could also opt to make your own fresh, homemade cheese tortellini. Simply mix ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg. Wrap in fresh pasta dough, cut into small squares, and fold into tortellini shapes. Boil until tender, then serve with your shrimp and sauce for a delightful meal.

How to Make Shrimp Tortellini

Step One: 

Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Step Two: 

Add the shrimp to the melted butter and saute for 2-3 minutes on each side until they start to turn pink.

Step Three: 

Stir in the tomatoes, garlic, and 2 basil leaves. Sautee for 2-3 minutes, bringing the liquids to a simmer.

Step Four:

Add in the corn, flour, salt, and pepper, then stir to coat everything in the flour.

Step Five: 

Reduce the heat to medium, stir in the heavy cream, and bring to a simmer.

Step Six: 

Turn off the heat, add the cooked tortellini and parmesan cheese to the sauce, and toss to coat.

Step Seven: 

Top your creamy shrimp tortellini with fresh basil, serve, and enjoy!

Tips

  • Cook tortellini according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Cook until al dente for the best texture.
  • Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can be used to thin out your sauce and helps it cling better to the pasta.
  • For the best shrimp tortellini, serve immediately while hot to enjoy its full flavors and textures.

What to Serve With Shrimp Tortellini

This homemade shrimp tortellini pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich flavors.

A crisp green salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balance, while garlic bread or a warm dinner roll is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.

Steamed or roasted vegetables like canned asparagus or broccoli provide a healthy and colorful contrast. 

FAQs

Can I make this easy shrimp tortellini recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make shrimp tortellini ahead of time. Prepare the dish as directed, then refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to maintain the sauce's consistency.

Is there a way to make a healthy shrimp tortellini pasta?

Yes, you can make a healthy shrimp tortellini by using whole wheat tortellini, reducing the amount of cream or using a lighter alternative like half-and-half, and adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Opt for low-sodium seasonings and fresh herbs for extra flavor without added salt.

What's the best way to store leftover shrimp tortellini?

Store leftover shrimp tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze it for up to 2 months.

More Pasta Recipes

Pasta dishes, like this shrimp tortellini pasta, make for excellent quick and easy recipe ideas when you need a hearty meal that aims to impress. To help inspire your next meal, check out this collection of quick pasta recipes that we love.

Feta Pasta

Pasta Carbonara

Tortellini Alfredo

Cheeseburger Macaroni

Shrimp Tortellini

Shrimp Tortellini

Need a speedy, scrumptious dinner? Shrimp tortellini to the rescue! This dish combines tender pasta with juicy shrimp, all ready in 15 minutes.
4.86 from 14 votes
Print Pin Rate
Course: dinner, seafood
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: shrimp, Shrimp Tortellini, tortellini
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Author: Corrie

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 pound shrimp
  • ½ cup Roma tomato diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 6 leaves basil divided
  • cup corn frozen
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon pepper or to taste
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 pound cheese tortellini cooked

Instructions

  • Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  • Add the shrimp to the melted butter and saute for 2-3 minutes on each side until they start to turn pink.
  • Stir in the tomatoes, garlic, and 2 basil leaves. Sautee for 2-3 minutes, bringing the liquids to a simmer.
  • Add in the corn, flour, salt, and pepper, then stir to coat everything in the flour.
  • Reduce the heat to medium, stir in the heavy cream, and bring to a simmer.
  • Turn off the heat, add the cooked tortellini and parmesan cheese to the sauce, and toss to coat.
  • Top your creamy shrimp tortellini with fresh basil, serve, and enjoy ๐Ÿ™‚

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 557kcal Carbohydrates: 56g Protein: 19g Fat: 29g Saturated Fat: 15g Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g Monounsaturated Fat: 5g Trans Fat: 0.3g Cholesterol: 99mg Sodium: 860mg Potassium: 146mg Fiber: 5g Sugar: 5g Vitamin A: 1022IU Vitamin C: 6mg Calcium: 193mg Iron: 3mg

Notes

  • Cook tortellini according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Cook until al dente for the best texture.
  • Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can be used to thin out your sauce and helps it cling better to the pasta.
Tried this Recipe?Mention @corriecooksblog or tag #corriecooks!

1 thought on “Shrimp Tortellini

  1. 5 stars
    Corrie!
    Thanks for a very tasty, quick dinner! I added a bit of onion & used butter instead of OOil... used up a lemon , a smidge of cayenne & added a dab of cream!

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