Dive into a world of flavor with our Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Tortellini! Imagine tender tortellini, bursting with cheesy goodness, perfectly complemented by succulent shrimp and vibrant spinach, all bathed in a luscious, creamy sauce. This dish is not only incredibly delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it's packed with nutrients, so you can feel good about what you're eating. I know I often crave something comforting but don’t always have hours to spend in the kitchen, and this recipe is my go-to solution!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Tortellini recipe is a little piece of my Nonna’s kitchen brought to life. Every summer, we’d gather around her table, feasting on simple yet incredible pasta dishes. She always insisted on using fresh ingredients and celebrating the joy of shared meals. This recipe is inspired by her love for good food and good company – it's a celebration of flavor that brings back those cherished memories every time I make it.
Ingredients
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For the Tortellini:
- 1 (20 ounce) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
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For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Cook the Tortellini: Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Thicken the Sauce: Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until combined. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Add Cheese and Spinach: Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Combine Everything: Add cooked tortellini and shrimp to the sauce. Gently toss to coat.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Tortellini
Tender tortellini with shrimp and spinach in a creamy, flavorful sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.1 20 ounce cheese tortellini
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.1 pound large shrimp, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, Salt and pepper
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.2 tablespoons butter, 2 cloves garlic
- Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until combined. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 cups milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 5 ounces fresh spinach
- Add cooked tortellini and shrimp to the sauce. Gently toss to coat.1 20 ounce cheese tortellini, 1 pound large shrimp
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.Salt and pepper
Notes
Inspired by Nonna’s simple pasta dishes, celebrating fresh ingredients and shared meals.