Cheese Tortellini With Shrimp In Tomato Cream Sauce

9 steps · 45 min total

1. 01

   Prep Shrimp and Cook Tortellini

   If using frozen shrimp, thaw them according to package directions, then peel, devein, and rinse them in a colander. Let them drain while you start the pasta.

   Fill a medium saucepan with cold water and bring it to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, being careful not to overcook them; they should take no more than 2-3 minutes once added to the boiling water.

2. 02

   Simmer Tomatoes, Heat Skillet

   Drain the cooked tortellini and set them aside. Using the same saucepan, combine the diced tomatoes, crushed chicken bouillon, parsley, and thyme. Bring this mixture to a low simmer.

   While the tomatoes are simmering, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the olive oil to the skillet.

3. 03

   Sauté Garlic

   Once the olive oil is warm, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook it just until it becomes slightly opaque, which should take about 1 minute.
4. 04

   Combine Garlic and Tomatoes

   Pour the garlic and olive oil mixture from the skillet into the simmering tomatoes. Stir to combine. Use a fork to gently crush the tomatoes, breaking up the pieces until you have a chunky sauce.
5. 05

   Simmer Cream

   Return to the skillet you used for the garlic. Add the half-and-half to the skillet and bring it to a low simmer.
6. 06

   Finish Sauce and Prep Shrimp

   Add the tomato sauce, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste to the simmering cream in the skillet. Stir well and bring it back up to a slow simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low to keep the sauce warm, stirring occasionally.

   At this point, you can butterfly your shrimp if you like; it makes them appear more substantial. To do this, place each shrimp on a cutting board and, with a very sharp knife, slice it open along the back without cutting all the way through.

7. 07

   Cook Shrimp

   Add the prepped shrimp to the warm cream sauce. Cover the skillet and let the shrimp cook for approximately 4-5 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
8. 08

   Add Tortellini

   Add the cooked tortellini to the pan with the shrimp and cream sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly, and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
9. 09

   Serve

   Remove the pan from the heat. Plate individual servings and top each with a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese.