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Cook the tortellini — Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 3–5 minutes for fresh/refrigerated). Once al dente, drain and set aside.
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Sear the shrimp — While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then add to skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes per side (depending on size) until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
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Start the sauce — In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and melt. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant (but not browned).
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Build the creamy sauce — Pour in the heavy cream (and broth if using), stirring to combine. Simmer gently 1–2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
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Add spinach — Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
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Finish with cheese & seasoning — Add grated Parmesan, stirring until melted and sauce is creamy. Add red pepper flakes (if using), and taste — adjust salt and pepper as needed.
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Combine tortellini & shrimp — Return cooked tortellini and shrimp to the skillet. Gently stir to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more broth or cream to reach desired consistency.
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Serve immediately — Spoon into bowls/plates, garnish with optional chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve warm, ideally with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad.
Tips & Variations
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✅ Use freshly grated Parmesan — pre‑grated cheese often contains anti‑caking agents which can affect sauce texture.
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💡 For lighter version: use half‑and‑half instead of heavy cream, or reduce cheese quantity.
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🥬 Add more veggies — mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers — for extra texture and nutrition
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🌶️ For a spicy twist: increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
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🍋 Brighten it up with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving — pairs beautifully with shrimp.
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🍽️ Want extra color & freshness? Stir in sliced cherry tomatoes or a handful of fresh basil at the end.
What to Serve With This Dish
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Garlic bread or crusty bread — perfect for sopping up leftover creamy sauce
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A simple green salad with vinaigrette — light and refreshing contrast to the rich pasta
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Steamed or roasted vegetables — broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini work great
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A glass of crisp white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) or sparkling water with lemon
Why This Dish Works
Combining shrimp with tortellini and a creamy sauce creates a balanced plate — protein, carbs, and greens — all in a single pan. The garlic, butter, cream, and Parmesan bring richness and comfort, while the spinach adds freshness and a nutritional boost. Shrimp offers a light seafood flavor that cuts through the creaminess. Efficiency, flavor, and comfort — all wrapped in one delicious pasta dish.
