Why Make This Recipe

Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender cheese tortellini, juicy shrimp, and a creamy, zesty sauce. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The bright lemon and garlic give it a fresh taste, and the creamy sauce brings everything together beautifully. Your family and friends will love it!

How to Make Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 lb cheese tortellini
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat.
5. Add in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried basil, and dried thyme. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Return the cooked tortellini and shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
7. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving.

How to Serve Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce

Serve the Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce hot on plates. You can offer some extra grated Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce

To store leftovers, place the Shrimp Tortellini in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Tips to Make Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce

1. Feel free to use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
2. For added texture, consider tossing in some spinach or cherry tomatoes while cooking the sauce.
3. Adjust the lemon juice to your taste if you like it zestier or more mild.

Variation

You can substitute the shrimp with chicken or just go for a vegetarian option by adding more vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

FAQs

Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried cheese tortellini. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the correct timing.

Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is not spicy. It has a mild flavor from the garlic and lemon. You can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.

How can I make this dish lighter?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese to make it a lighter version. You could also use zucchini noodles instead of tortellini for a low-carb option.