Creamy Cajun Shrimp Tortellini
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Tortellini is bursting with bold spices, tender shrimp, and a luscious creamy sauce—ready in under 30 minutes for a quick, indulgent meal.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Colander
Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes until they float to the surface and are tender. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Stir well to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Finish the Dish
- Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked tortellini and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs thinning. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra Cajun seasoning if desired.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy, spicy bite.
Notes
- Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a perfectly creamy texture.
- Swap bell pepper for mushrooms or zucchini to add more vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.