Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp and cheese tortellini in a rich, zesty sauce. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner with a touch of elegance.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 package (9 ounces) cheese tortellini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Step 5: Add lemon zest and lemon juice to the sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Stir in the butter until it melts and incorporates into the sauce, then add the cooked shrimp and tortellini to the skillet.
7. Step 7: Gently toss everything together until the shrimp and tortellini are well-coated in the lemon garlic cream sauce.
8. Step 8: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
• Use spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a fresh twist in the sauce.
• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but expect a thinner consistency.
• Make it gluten-free by choosing gluten-free tortellini available at most grocery stores.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Thaw completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

What can I serve with shrimp tortellini in lemon garlic cream sauce?

This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 58 reviews

• Author: lina
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a delightful and creamy pasta dish featuring tender shrimp and cheesy tortellini enveloped in a rich, zesty lemon garlic cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe combines fresh flavors and simple ingredients for a decadent, restaurant-quality meal made right at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Seafood

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

Pasta

• 1 package (9 ounces) cheese tortellini

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, typically boiling for about 3-5 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain well and set aside to keep warm.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and place on a plate, setting aside.
3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
4. Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add Lemon Flavor: Incorporate the lemon zest and lemon juice into the cream sauce. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
6. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the butter until it melts completely and blends smoothly into the sauce, giving it richness and shine.
7. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked shrimp and tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the shrimp and tortellini are well coated with the lemon garlic cream sauce.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra citrus brightness.

Notes

• Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest according to your preference for acidity and brightness.
• Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be as rich.
• Parmesan cheese adds a nutty depth; freshly grated is preferred over pre-grated.
• This dish is best served immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute cheese tortellini with gluten-free pasta or tortellini.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: shrimp tortellini, lemon garlic cream sauce, creamy pasta, easy shrimp pasta, Italian dinner, weeknight recipe