Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo

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Creamy, indulgent, and packed with flavor, this Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo is a decadent dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Imagine juicy shrimp nestled in pillowy cheese tortellini, all coated in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels gourmet without the hassle.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for friends or simply craving a restaurant-style meal at home, this dish delivers elegance and satisfaction in every bite. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine, and you’ve got a winning dinner that’s both effortless and impressive.

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Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo

This dish checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing meal: it’s creamy, hearty, and fast. The flavor combination of shrimp and cheese-filled pasta in a garlic cream sauce creates a rich yet balanced dish. Plus, it uses simple, accessible ingredients that come together in one skillet for minimal cleanup.

This recipe is also very customizable—you can swap out the shrimp for chicken, add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, or even use store-bought Alfredo sauce in a pinch.

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What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini works best in this recipe because it cooks quickly and absorbs the Alfredo sauce beautifully. You can also use frozen tortellini—just adjust the cook time as needed. Avoid dry tortellini, as it tends to be less tender and may not hold up well in the creamy sauce.

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Ingredients for the Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo

Each ingredient in this Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo plays a delicious role in building flavor and texture. Here’s why they’re important:

• Shrimp – Tender and slightly sweet, shrimp brings a seafood twist and protein to the dish.
• Cheese tortellini – The soft pasta pillows filled with cheese create the perfect bite and pair well with the Alfredo sauce.
• Butter – Used to sauté the shrimp and build the sauce with richness.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with depth and a hint of spice.
• Heavy cream – This is the creamy base that makes the sauce luscious and indulgent.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce naturally.
• Salt and black pepper – Enhances the flavor of the sauce and shrimp.
• Fresh basil or parsley – A sprinkle of herbs on top adds color and a fresh finish.

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How To Make the Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt half the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Parmesan and Season

Whisk in the Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Shrimp

Add the cooked tortellini directly into the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Gently return the shrimp to the pan and stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped basil or parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

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How to Serve and Store This Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo

This recipe serves 4 people generously, making it perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a small dinner party.

Serve it hot straight from the skillet, garnished with fresh herbs and a crack of black pepper. To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

This dish does not freeze well due to the dairy-based sauce, which can separate when thawed.

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What to Serve With Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect companion to mop up any extra Alfredo sauce.

Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad with romaine, Parmesan, and croutons balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli brings a nutty crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.

White Wine

A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the shrimp and cream flavors beautifully.

Lemon Asparagus

Lightly steamed or roasted asparagus with a squeeze of lemon adds freshness and brightness to the plate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the sauce.

Can I substitute the cream with milk?

For the creamiest Alfredo sauce, heavy cream is ideal. You can use whole milk, but the sauce may be thinner. For a lighter version, try half-and-half.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can make the Alfredo sauce and cook the shrimp in advance. Reheat gently and add cooked tortellini just before serving.

What if I don’t have Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano is a great substitute, or you can use a mix of shredded Italian cheeses for a milder flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written. However, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free tortellini and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

For more creamy pasta ideas, check out our Garlic Chicken Alfredo Bake and Creamy Spinach Ravioli.

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