Indulge in a restaurant-quality meal at home with our Cheesy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Skillet recipe! This dish combines succulent shrimp, tender cheese tortellini, and a creamy Alfredo sauce infused with Parmesan cheese and basil. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this skillet meal is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how you can create this decadent dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Cheesy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Skillet:
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a delicate seafood flavor.
- Cheese Tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini works well.
- Fresh Roma Tomato: Adds a burst of freshness.
- Salted Butter: Used for sautéing and flavor.
- Minced Garlic Cloves: Enhances the savory profile.
- Basil Leaves: Fresh basil adds aromatic notes.
- All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the Alfredo sauce.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the creamy sauce.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Creates a rich and velvety texture.
- Salt and Black Pepper: For seasoning to taste.
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by preparing all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp if necessary, chop the Roma tomato, mince the garlic cloves, and shred the Parmesan cheese.
- Cook Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt salted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt additional butter if needed. Sprinkle in all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in heavy whipping cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened.
- Add Parmesan and Seasoning: Stir in shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Add cooked cheese tortellini, sautéed shrimp, chopped Roma tomato, and torn basil leaves to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until well coated in the Alfredo sauce.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with additional shredded Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Tortellini Texture: Be careful not to overcook the tortellini as it can become mushy.
- Sauce Thickness: Adjust the amount of heavy whipping cream and Parmesan cheese to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- Shrimp Cooking: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to avoid overcooking.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can substitute frozen shrimp for fresh. Thaw and drain them thoroughly before cooking.
Q: What can I serve with Cheesy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Skillet? A: This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Q: Can I use a different type of tortellini? A: Yes, you can use spinach and cheese tortellini or any other variety you prefer.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Variations
Customize your Cheesy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Skillet with these variations:
- Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos for a kick of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a meatless alternative.
- Creamy Herb Blend: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added freshness.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly adaptation:
- Substitute cheese tortellini with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles.
- Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for thickening the sauce.
- Replace heavy whipping cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream.
Low Carb Version
To reduce carbs:
- Use cauliflower gnocchi or cauliflower rice instead of tortellini.
- Opt for a low-carb Alfredo sauce recipe using cauliflower, cream cheese, and Parmesan.
Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of our Cheesy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Skillet! Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy date night, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. With simple steps and decadent results, it’s a recipe worth adding to your culinary repertoire.
Stay tuned to our blog for more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and culinary inspiration. Bon appétit!
