Garlic Butter Shrimp Tortellini

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Shrimp Tortellini on busy weeknights when I crave something flavorful yet quick. This dish combines succulent shrimp with pillowy tortellini, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. It comes together in a flash, making it ideal for those evenings when time is short but the desire for a satisfying meal remains. The best part? The entire family devours it. Trust me, once you try it, you'll add it to your weeknight rotation!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-02-15T14:57:18.608Z

When I first attempted Garlic Butter Shrimp Tortellini, I experimented with various herbs and spices, but eventually settled on a classic garlic-butter combination for its simplicity and rich flavor. One key to success is not overcooking the shrimp; they should be just opaque and tender. I like to toss them in at the end to keep their texture perfectly plump while the tortellini cooks.

Another tip I discovered is to add a splash of lemon juice right before serving. It brightens the dish beautifully and balances the richness of the garlic butter. It's a family favorite that never fails to impress, and I highly recommend trying it for your next dinner.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare for busy evenings
Creamy garlic butter sauce that enhances the entire dish
Perfectly cooked shrimp complementing tender tortellini
Brightened up with a hint of lemon for refreshing flavor

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh shrimp is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture that elevates this dish. Look for shrimp that are currently in season, and if possible, buy them from a local source. If you can only find frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them thoroughly first. Always check that they're firm to the touch and have a slight ocean scent. Avoid shrimp with an overly strong fishy odor as it can ruin the delicate flavor of your garlic butter sauce.

The tortellini you choose also impacts the overall dish. I prefer using cheese-filled tortellini as it adds a creamy richness, but feel free to experiment with other fillings or even opt for spinach or mushroom varieties. Just ensure you adjust your cooking times based on the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a mushy texture.

Mastering the Garlic Butter Sauce

The sauce is what brings everything together and it deserves your attention. Once the garlic is added to the melted butter, keep a watchful eye on it as it can burn quickly. I recommend cooking it just until fragrant—around 30 seconds. If it starts to brown, reduce the heat immediately to prevent bitterness from setting in. The golden syrupy consistency of the garlic butter after cooking adds depth and a beautiful sheen to the dish.

Incorporating chicken broth not only adds moisture but enhances the overall flavor profile. Feel free to substitute vegetable broth if you're looking for a vegetarian alternative. Just remember, using homemade or low-sodium broth can help control the saltiness of the dish; you can always add more salt if needed.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving this dish hot enhances its taste and texture. I like to serve it with a sprinkle of extra parsley and a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra citrusy kick. You can also pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. It's a delightful choice for both casual family dinners and when entertaining guests.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce, which may thicken after refrigeration. I do not recommend freezing this dish, as it can affect the texture of the tortellini and shrimp.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delectable dish:

Ingredients

12 oz cheese tortellini
1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to use quality shrimp as it makes a noticeable difference in flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal:

Cook the Tortellini

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the tortellini according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the shrimp turns pink, about 4-5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the tortellini is evenly coated in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Serve with a side salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Variations to Explore

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Tortellini is highly versatile, and I encourage you to get creative with mix-ins. Consider adding fresh vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers toward the end of the sautéing process. These will add both color and nutrients, enhancing the dish's appeal without compromising on cooking time.

If you're looking for a creamier finish, you can stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream right before serving. This addition will enrich the garlic butter sauce and give it a silky texture. Alternatively, for a lighter option, omit the butter and use olive oil with a splash of white wine for a more Mediterranean flair.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce is too greasy, it’s likely due to using too much butter or not allowing the garlic to cook long enough to infuse flavor. To fix this, you can balance it out with a bit more chicken broth. Always taste your sauce before adding more seasoning because the broth may already contain sufficient salt.

Another common issue is overcooking the shrimp, which can make them rubbery. To avoid this, it's important to remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink. They will continue to cook slightly from residual heat, so it's better to err on the side of caution.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe serves about four, but it can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. If doubling the recipe, ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate everything without overcrowding, which would affect cooking times. You could also cook in batches, especially if you're using a standard skillet.

Conversely, if you need to make a smaller portion, you can easily cut the ingredients in half. Be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly, especially for the shrimp, so always keep an eye on them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for tortellini?

You can use any type of pasta, such as fettuccine or penne.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and omit cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.