Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo

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Creamy, comforting, and loaded with flavor, Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo is a dream come true for pasta lovers. This dish brings together tender cheese-stuffed tortellini and juicy, seared shrimp, all wrapped in a luscious garlic parmesan Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe delivers elegance and ease in every bite.

What makes this Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo extra special is how quick it is to prepare—yet it tastes like something from a high-end Italian bistro. With the combination of rich cream, savory garlic, and the delicate brininess of shrimp, this meal is both indulgent and deeply satisfying. Pair it with a glass of white wine and crusty bread, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy experience right in your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo

• Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting & Filling: The cheesy tortellini and creamy sauce make it a hearty meal.
• Elegant Yet Simple: Great for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even mushrooms for a twist.
• Kid-Friendly: Creamy pasta and shrimp? It’s usually a hit with the whole family.

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What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini work perfectly for this recipe. Choose one that’s stuffed with ricotta or a blend of Italian cheeses for a rich, creamy bite that complements the Alfredo sauce. You can also use spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini if you prefer a more earthy flavor. Avoid dry, shelf-stable tortellini for this recipe, as they tend to be firmer and take longer to cook.

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Ingredients for the Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo

Each ingredient in this Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo plays a key role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Cheese Tortellini – These are the heart of the dish, offering rich, cheesy bites that soak up the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Shrimp – Fresh or frozen and thawed, shrimp add a savory seafood flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream – The base of the Alfredo sauce, creating a silky and rich texture.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic depth and sharpness to balance the richness.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, umami flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Butter – For sautéing the shrimp and garlic, bringing richness and a golden touch.
• Olive Oil – Used alongside butter to prevent burning and add extra flavor.
• Spinach (optional) – Adds color, texture, and a fresh, slightly earthy taste.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes (optional) – Sweet and tangy contrast to the creaminess.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

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How To Make the Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the tortellini according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Optional Add-Ins

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes if using, and cook until wilted or warmed through.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan and continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked tortellini and shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. Let everything heat through for a minute or two.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, cracked black pepper, and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy immediately while creamy and warm.

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Serving and Storing Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo

This indulgent pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, right after it’s made, when the sauce is velvety and the shrimp are tender. It serves about 4 people as a generous main course, making it ideal for family dinners or a cozy date night in.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Keep in mind that the texture of shrimp may change slightly upon reheating, but the flavor remains rich and comforting.

Freezing is not recommended, as creamy sauces tend to separate and the tortellini can become mushy after thawing.

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What to Serve With Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra Alfredo sauce.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons balance the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Asparagus

Lightly charred asparagus brings a fresh, slightly bitter bite to contrast the creaminess.

Lemon Zucchini

Sautéed zucchini with a squeeze of lemon offers a bright and light veggie side.

White Wine

A crisp glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay enhances the flavors of the creamy shrimp pasta.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on skewers make a refreshing appetizer.

Mixed Antipasto Platter

Olives, cured meats, and marinated vegetables provide bold, savory bites to start the meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking so they sear properly instead of steaming.

How can I thicken my Alfredo sauce?
If your sauce turns out too thin, try simmering it for a few extra minutes to reduce it. You can also add a bit more Parmesan cheese or a spoonful of cream cheese for added thickness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the tortellini and shrimp ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. Reheat gently with the Alfredo sauce just before serving.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, and use a light Parmesan or nutritional yeast for flavor. The result will be slightly less rich but still delicious.

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Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add sun-dried tomatoes or maybe some mushrooms? Did you go light or extra creamy?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Find more comforting and easy dinner ideas like this one on my Pinterest: Meals We Share By Sally

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Conclusion

Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo is the perfect combination of rich, creamy, and savory. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to recipe when you’re craving comfort food with a gourmet touch. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or an at-home date night, this dish delivers a satisfying and elegant dining experience every time.

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