Why You’ll Love This Creamed Spinach Tortellini and Shrimp
- Nutritious and Flavorful: Packed with spinach and protein-rich shrimp.
- Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy schedule.
- Rich and Creamy: The luscious cream sauce brings all the ingredients together beautifully.
Creamed Spinach Tortellini and Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
There’s something comforting about a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that combines tender tortellini, succulent shrimp, and flavorful spinach. This one-pan recipe is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or an indulgent dinner treat. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Creamed Spinach Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet.
- Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked tortellini and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Simmer for 1-2 minutes to heat through. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh shrimp. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Customize the Cheese: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or add a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Add Mushrooms: For an extra layer of flavor, sauté sliced mushrooms with the spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.
Q2: Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
A: Absolutely! Grilled chicken or even sautéed mushrooms are excellent alternatives.
Q3: Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
A: You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly for a lighter option.
Conclusion: A New Favorite Pasta Dish!
Creamed Spinach Tortellini and Shrimp is a dish you’ll come back to again and again. With its indulgent flavors and quick preparation, it’s perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners.
Did you try this recipe? Share your photos and feedback—we’d love to hear from you!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 18g
Enjoy every creamy, cheesy, and delicious bite!
