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A close-up shot of a bowl filled with creamy Shrimp and Spinach Tortellini, garnished with red pepper flakes and grated cheese.
Layla

Creamy Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Spinach Tortellini

This comforting dish features tender tortellini, succulent shrimp, and fresh spinach tossed in a rich, creamy lemon-garlic sauce. It's an elegant meal that comes together quickly, perfect for a weeknight or a special occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Tortellini
  • 1 lbs Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini (fresh cooks faster, adjust time)
For the Shrimp
  • 1 lbs Large shrimp peeled, deveined, tails on or off
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Butter unsalted
  • 4 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup Dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay), optional, or use chicken broth
  • 1.5 cups Heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • 4 cups Fresh spinach loosely packed
  • 1 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Tongs or Slotted Spoon

Method
 

Cook the Tortellini
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, typically 2-3 minutes for fresh or 5-7 minutes for frozen, until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp
  1. While the tortellini cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
  1. Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
  2. Stir in the 1.5 cups heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Reduce heat to low.
Combine and Serve
  1. Add the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and whisk until melted and smooth. Stir in the 4 cups fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts completely, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Return the cooked shrimp and drained tortellini to the skillet with the sauce. Add 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice. Toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
If you don't have fresh tortellini, frozen will work just as well, just adjust cooking time according to package instructions.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.