Cheesy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Skillet (Creamy, Dreamy, & Ready in 20 Minutes)

Let me start by saying — this dish is the reason “just one bite” never works in my house. I first made this Cheesy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Skillet on a night when I wanted something restaurant-worthy but didn’t feel like changing out of my comfy pants. One skillet, a handful of fresh ingredients, and twenty minutes later… I had the kind of dinner you linger over.

It’s creamy, cheesy, and filled with plump shrimp, tender tortellini, and a sauce that clings to every bite. The fresh basil and tomato give it a burst of brightness that keeps each forkful exciting. It’s indulgent without being fussy — the kind of recipe that feels like a treat but is easy enough for a weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-skillet simplicity — less cleanup, more flavor.
Balanced richness — creamy Alfredo sauce brightened by fresh herbs and tomato.
Fast & impressive — ready in about 20 minutes.
Crowd-pleaser — pasta, cheese, and shrimp rarely get turned down.

What It Tastes Like

Tender cheese tortellini and juicy shrimp are wrapped in a velvety Alfredo sauce enriched with Parmesan and butter. The tomato adds sweet acidity, the basil gives a pop of freshness, and the garlic ties it all together. Every bite is a little bit indulgent and a lot delicious.

Ingredients

1 pound package cheese tortellini pasta, cooked and drained
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp salted butter
1 Roma tomato, diced
2 basil leaves, minced (plus more for garnish)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
½ cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander (for draining pasta)
Sharp knife and cutting board

Ingredient Substitutions & Additions

Pasta swap: Use spinach tortellini or ravioli for variety.
Protein change: Try scallops, chicken, or a mix of seafood.
Herb variation: Replace basil with fresh parsley or thyme.
Extra veggies: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook pasta: Prepare cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque.
Add flavor: Stir in diced tomato, minced basil, and garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Make sauce base: Sprinkle in flour and stir until combined.
Create the Alfredo: Slowly stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until sauce thickens slightly.
Combine: Add cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss gently until pasta is well coated in sauce.
Serve: Top with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic bread or a warm baguette
Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Glass of crisp white wine (like Pinot Grigio)

Tips for Perfect Alfredo Skillet Pasta

Don’t overcook the shrimp — they cook quickly and can turn rubbery.
If sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or extra cream.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, richest sauce.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Not recommended for freezing — cream sauces can separate.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance for faster cooking.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make this without seafood?
Absolutely — it’s still delicious with chicken, sausage, or just extra veggies.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Skillet is proof that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be amazing. It’s weeknight-friendly, date-night-worthy, and absolutely guaranteed to make you want seconds.

If creamy pasta is your happy place, you might also enjoy:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
Lobster Ravioli with Lemon Butter Sauce
Spinach and Mushroom Alfredo Bake

💬 Made this recipe? Share your photos on Pinterest or drop your review below — I’d love to see your skillet in action!

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 540
Protein: 32g
Fat: 26g
Carbs: 45g
Sugar: 3g

Cheesy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Skillet (Creamy, Dreamy, & Ready in 20 Minutes)