Tortellini With Shrimp
Creamy shrimp and cheese tortellini dish infused with basil, garlic, and Parmesan, perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal suitable for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Keep warm.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Saute minced onion and garlic in the melted butter until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes until they turn pink.
- Stir in the broken-up plum tomatoes with basil and the reserved liquid, along with the crème fraîche.
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Toss the cooked tortellini with the shrimp mixture and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture into an ovenproof serving dish.
- Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top and drizzle with olive oil.
- Can be made ahead and reheated at 325°F for 40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the shrimp. If you can't find mixed spinach tortellini, any cheese tortellini will work well. For a lighter option, swap crème fraîche with Greek yogurt or a reduced-fat sour cream. Fresh basil can also be added for extra flavor. Look for Italian recipes that incorporate seafood for more inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread pairs beautifully as a side, allowing for some delightful dipping. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish like Fettuccini With Asparagus And Shrimp.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an ovenproof dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tortellini With Shrimp contains roughly 1084 calories, with 21g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value) and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1109mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for crème fraîche if I can't find it?
If crème fraîche is unavailable, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute. For a richer flavor, mix in a little heavy cream with the sour cream or yogurt. This will closely mimic the creamy texture and taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the shrimp. Additionally, some finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can enhance the spiciness without overpowering the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).