Delicious Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce Recipe

Creamy, zesty, and utterly irresistible—this Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a restaurant-worthy dish you can prepare in the comfort of your own kitchen. Combining the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan with the brightness of fresh lemon, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or a weeknight treat for the whole family, this dish delivers elegance without the fuss.

In this article, you’ll find a detailed step-by-step guide, cooking tips, and answers to common questions to help you create a flawless shrimp tortellini dinner every time.

🍤 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Comfort food: Creamy and satisfying without being overly heavy.
• Elegant yet simple: Perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.
• Flavor-packed: Bright lemon, rich garlic, and juicy shrimp complement the cheesy tortellini beautifully.

🧾 Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy shrimp tortellini:

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated preferred for best texture)
• 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large, tail-off)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (typically 3–5 minutes for fresh tortellini). Once cooked, drain and set aside. Lightly drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.

💡 Pro tip: Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water—it may help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.

🧂 Optional: Lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper before cooking for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, followed by the Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken—about 2–3 minutes.

🍋 Tip: Taste the sauce and adjust with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to your liking.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp and tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss to coat everything in the creamy lemon garlic sauce. Heat through for 1–2 minutes.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot.

🌶️ Optional: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This creamy shrimp tortellini pairs wonderfully with:

• A crisp side salad (think arugula with balsamic vinaigrette)
• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• Crusty garlic bread for dipping in that luscious sauce
• A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

🔄 Variations and Substitutions

Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas:

• Protein Swap: Use chicken breast or scallops in place of shrimp.
• Pasta Choices: Substitute tortellini with ravioli, penne, or even gnocchi.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrition.
• Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

🕒 Storage & Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

⚠️ Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long—it can become rubbery.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the skillet.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead, but cook the tortellini fresh for the best texture. Combine and heat everything just before serving.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low once you add lemon juice and cream. High heat can cause dairy to separate.

What if I don’t have Parmesan?

You can substitute with Romano or Asiago cheese. For a milder flavor, use mozzarella (though it won’t melt as smoothly).

Is this dish gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free tortellini and verify that all other ingredients (like Parmesan and broth, if added) are certified gluten-free.

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✨ Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a delightful, restaurant-quality meal you’ll find yourself making again and again. The velvety cream sauce enriched with garlic and lemon brings out the sweetness of the shrimp, while the cheese-stuffed tortellini adds satisfying heartiness.

Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish checks all the boxes—easy, flavorful, and full of comfort.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your version with friends and family. Bon appétit! 🍋🧄🍤