Description

Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish featuring succulent seared shrimp tossed with cheese-filled tortellini in a creamy garlic sauce with hints of white wine and Parmesan cheese. This easy skillet recipe combines fresh baby spinach for a touch of green and a spicy kick from crushed red pepper, making it a comforting and elegant meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
All-purpose seasoning, to taste

Pasta

20 oz refrigerated three cheese tortellini

Sauce

8 tbsp unsalted butter
1/3 cup dry white wine
6 oz seafood or chicken stock
2 cups heavy cream
2 tbsp flour
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Vegetables

5 oz fresh baby spinach

Instructions

Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and season evenly with all-purpose seasoning to impart flavor before cooking.
Sear the shrimp: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sear until pink and opaque, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside to avoid overcooking.
Prepare the sauce base: Reduce skillet heat to medium-low. Add white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Then, add butter and minced garlic. Cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Make the creamy sauce: Sprinkle flour over the butter and garlic mixture and stir to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the stock followed by heavy cream, stirring continuously. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes until thickened and smooth.
Cook the tortellini: Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Add spinach and seasoning: Stir fresh baby spinach into the sauce, allowing it to wilt completely. Add crushed red pepper flakes and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until well combined.
Combine and serve: Gently mix the cooked tortellini and seared shrimp into the sauce, ensuring everything is well coated. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use seafood stock for a more pronounced flavor; chicken stock works well as a substitute.
Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness or omit if preferred.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk and cream mixture, though the sauce will be less rich.
Ensure the shrimp is cooked just until pink to avoid toughness.
Deglazing with white wine adds depth, but you can use chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer no alcohol.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Shrimp Tortellini, Garlic Sauce, Creamy Pasta, Italian Seafood Pasta, Easy Dinner, One Pan Meal