If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, delicious hug on a plate, then Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is about to become your new favorite. This sumptuous recipe combines tender cheese tortellini with juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp, all enveloped in a dreamy lemon garlic cream sauce that bursts with brightness and subtle herbaceous notes. It’s a delightful balance of rich, creamy textures and fresh, zesty flavors that will impress anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients is the key to making this dish shine. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the silky tortellini to the vibrant lemon and aromatic herbs.
- Cheese tortellini (1 lb): Use fresh or frozen for that soft, cheesy center that’s pure comfort in every bite.
- Large shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 lb): Fresh or thawed shrimp provide a savory, meaty texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds a fruity richness and helps cook the shrimp to perfect tenderness.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Infuses the sauce with its unmistakable fragrant warmth and depth.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the luscious, velvety base for that iconic cream sauce texture.
- Chicken broth (½ cup): Lightens the cream just enough and adds subtle savory flavor.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (¼ cup): Introduces a nutty, salty note that enriches the sauce beautifully.
- Lemon, zested and juiced (1): The star of the show for brightness and a refreshing citrus pop.
- Dried basil (1 tsp): Offers a gentle earthy herbiness that complements the shrimp.
- Dried thyme (1 tsp): Adds warmth and complexity without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Provides a vibrant green contrast and fresh note to finish.
How to Make Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3 to 5 minutes until tender but still firm to the bite. Once perfectly cooked, drain and set aside, getting ready for the sauce to work its magic.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
While your tortellini is boiling, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque—don’t overcook to keep them juicy. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, releasing that wonderful aroma that makes your kitchen feel like home. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine everything evenly. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer—it’s the perfect base for your sauce.
Step 4: Add the Seasonings
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice, followed by dried basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes; this allows it to thicken slightly while all those flavors meld together beautifully, creating a bright yet creamy delight that will cling perfectly to your pasta.
Step 5: Combine the Tortellini and Shrimp
Add your cooked tortellini and shrimp back into the skillet with the lemon garlic cream sauce. Toss everything together gently so that every piece is coated in that irresistibly luscious sauce. This final step brings all the components into harmony, setting the stage for a truly mouthwatering meal.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Dish out your Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce onto plates and get ready to indulge. This dish tastes best when served right away, warm and fresh from the stove.
How to Serve Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that beautifully cuts through the creaminess, not to mention making your dish look Instagram-ready!
Side Dishes
This rich and flavorful dish pairs perfectly with light, crisp sides like a mixed green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus for a little earthy crunch. Garlic bread is also a fantastic choice to sop up every last bit of that luscious lemon garlic cream sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider serving your Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce in elegant shallow bowls with an extra lemon wedge on the side for guests to squeeze as they please. Garnish with extra Parmesan and a few whole basil leaves for a restaurant-quality presentation that’ll have everyone asking for your recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare!), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavors meld nicely overnight, but the pasta may absorb some sauce, so a quick stir before reheating helps.
Freezing
This dish freezes reasonably well, but keep in mind the texture of tortellini might soften slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze cooked tortellini and shrimp separately from the sauce, then combine and gently reheat when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
When ready to eat, warm the dish gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can toughen the shrimp and dry out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use fresh shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Fresh shrimp work beautifully in Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce and give the best flavor and texture. Just be sure to peel, devein, and pat them dry before cooking.
What if I can’t find cheese tortellini?
You can substitute with other stuffed pasta like ravioli or even plain pasta such as fettuccine, though tortellini’s stuffed nature adds a nice richness that complements the cream sauce perfectly.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese to reduce fat content while retaining that creamy texture, and use less cheese if desired.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes make delicious additions and add color and nutrients. Add them in when you’re simmering the sauce for best results.
How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If your lemon garlic cream sauce thickens too much, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth or cream to loosen it up while reheating or before serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a recipe that’s sweet, tangy, comforting, and elegant all at once, Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce fits the bill perfectly. It’s a dish I love not only for its wonderful flavors but because it comes together so beautifully with just a handful of ingredients. Do yourself a favor and whip up this gem—you’ll be so glad you did.
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