Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce has quickly earned its spot in my dinner rotation thanks to its vibrant flavors and comforting creaminess. Every forkful brings together tender, pink shrimp and pillowy cheese tortellini, all bathed in a luscious lemon garlic cream that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I still remember the first time I made this dish on a hectic weeknight: I was skeptical that something so indulgent could come together in just half an hour, but with just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, I ended up with a dinner that felt both gourmet and homey. The zing of fresh lemon cuts through the rich cream, while the garlic adds that savory depth that makes you reach for seconds—sometimes even thirds!
What I love most is how this recipe strikes the perfect balance between excitement and ease. It’s labeled as Intermediate, but there’s nothing too tricky here—just a bit of timing and a willingness to stir, sauté, and simmer your way to deliciousness. In about 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish that’s ideal for lunch or dinner, clocking in around 580 calories per serving. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or treating yourself, this Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce promises a taste adventure without the fuss. So grab your apron and let’s dive into a dish that’s creamy, zesty, and utterly unforgettable!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN SHRIMP TORTELLINI IN LEMON GARLIC CREAM SAUCE
Before we dive into the magic of cooking, let’s take a moment to celebrate the star players of this recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the succulent seafood to the bright citrus notes and the indulgent creaminess that binds it all together. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Shrimp
Succulent and peeled, these little gems cook quickly and soak up the garlic-lemon cream, adding a sweet, briny bite that feels like a seaside escape in every mouthful.
- Cheese Tortellini
Cheese-filled pasta pillows bring a delightful creaminess of their own, offering a tender, chewy contrast to the shrimp while carrying the sauce in every nook and cranny.
- Olive Oil
A fruity base fat that sears the shrimp to perfection, setting up a flavorful foundation without overpowering the delicate seafood taste.
- Garlic
Minced garlic delivers an aromatic, savory punch. Sautéed just until fragrant, it infuses the oil and cream with its signature warm spice.
- Heavy Cream
This rich dairy component creates the silky sauce, enveloping the shrimp and pasta in a luxuriously smooth texture that clings beautifully to each piece.
- Parmesan Cheese
Grated Parmesan melts into the simmering cream, adding savory umami and a slight nuttiness that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
- Lemon Zest
Bursting with citrus oils, the zest brightens the entire dish and gives an aromatic lift that pairs perfectly with seafood.
- Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed, it balances the cream’s richness with a tangy kick, keeping every bite lively and refreshing.
- Salt and Pepper
Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors, ensuring each ingredient shines without taking over the dish.
- Butter
Stirred in at the end, it enriches the sauce further, adding a glossy finish and a hint of mellow sweetness.
- Fresh Parsley
Chopped parsley adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of green color that makes the dish feel as vibrant as it tastes.
- Lemon Wedges
Served on the side, these allow anyone at the table to add extra citrus brightness, tailoring each bite to personal taste.
HOW TO MAKE SHRIMP TORTELLINI IN LEMON GARLIC CREAM SAUCE
Let’s roll up our sleeves and transform those ingredients into a mouthwatering meal. Each step builds upon the last, so it’s helpful to have everything prepped and ready before the cooking fun begins.
1. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain well and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. When it shimmers, gently place the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turns fully pink and opaque. Use a slotted spatula to transfer the shrimp to a plate and keep them warm.
3. Without cleaning the pan, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until the garlic is just fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and continue to stir until it melts completely and the sauce thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Stir the lemon zest and lemon juice into the cream, then season with salt and pepper to taste. These bright flavors should cut through the richness, giving the sauce a vibrant lift.
6. Add the butter and stir until it fully incorporates into the sauce, creating a glossy, velvety finish.
7. Return the cooked shrimp and tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, making sure every piece is generously coated in that lemon garlic cream.
8. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, then serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for anyone who wants an extra citrus charge.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR SHRIMP TORTELLINI IN LEMON GARLIC CREAM SAUCE
When it comes to serving this dish, presentation and pairing can turn a simple dinner into a memorable feast. Here are a few of my favorite ways to elevate the experience and make every bite shine:
- Crusty Artisan Bread
Serve alongside a warm, crusty loaf to soak up every last drop of the creamy sauce. Tear off a piece, dip it in, and enjoy that satisfying blend of textures.
- Fresh Garden Salad
A crisp salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing counterpoint. The acidity in the dressing harmonizes beautifully with the rich, lemony pasta.
- Crisp White Wine
A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish’s citrus notes and cuts through the cream, making each sip as delightful as each forkful.
- Parmesan Garnish
Offer a small bowl of extra grated Parmesan at the table so guests can sprinkle more on top, adding an extra layer of savory depth and that signature cheesy finish.
HOW TO STORE SHRIMP TORTELLINI IN LEMON GARLIC CREAM SAUCE
Proper storage ensures you get to enjoy the flavors of this dish even on a busy day when cooking from scratch isn’t an option. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:
- Refrigerate Promptly
Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature (no more than 30 minutes), then transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Use Shallow Containers
Spreading the dish in a shallow container helps it cool faster and prevents uneven temperature zones, which can lead to faster spoilage.
- Reheat Gently
When you’re ready to eat, warm the pasta over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This preserves the sauce’s texture without separating.
- Freeze for Longer Storage
If you want to stash a portion for later, freeze the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as above.
CONCLUSION
From the very first bite, Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce delivers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist. We’ve covered everything from selecting the freshest shrimp to mastering that velvety sauce, and I hope you’re as excited as I am to give this recipe a try. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for two or looking for a weeknight meal that feels a bit more special, this dish fits the bill beautifully. Remember, with a 10-minute prep and just 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table without the stress. Feel free to print this article or save it for later—you’ll find all the details right here, plus room for notes or tweaks that suit your taste.
I’ll be sharing a handy FAQ below to answer any lingering questions, but in the meantime, I’d love to hear from you. Did you swap in a different pasta? Add extra spice? How did your shrimp turn out? Drop your comments, questions, or feedback, and let me know how this Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce elevates your tortellini game. Happy cooking, and here’s to many more delicious adventures in the kitchen!
Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce
Description
This Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce bursts with flavors! Tender shrimp and cheese-filled tortellini are enveloped in a rich, zesty sauce that’s perfectly seasoned.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
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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.
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In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant.
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Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
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Add lemon zest and lemon juice to the sauce, season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Stir in the butter until it melts and incorporates into the sauce, then add the cooked shrimp and tortellini to the skillet.
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Gently toss everything together until the shrimp and tortellini are well-coated in the lemon garlic cream sauce.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Note
- Use large shrimp for a more impressive presentation and better texture.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of olive oil and butter when cooking the shrimp.
- The lemon zest is essential for an aromatic and fresh flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture as the sauce can thicken further on standing.
