Seafood tortellini is a rich, comforting pasta dish that combines cheese-filled tortellini with tender seafood in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or special occasions, this recipe is easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough to serve guests.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 (20-ounce) package cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Seafood
- 8 ounces (225 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 ounces (170 g) sea scallops
- 4 ounces (115 g) lump crab meat (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped basil
- Fresh lemon wedges
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Cooking Procedure
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Seafood
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until pink.
Add the scallops and cook for approximately 2 minutes on each side until lightly golden.
If using crab meat, gently stir it in during the final minute just to warm through.
Transfer the seafood to a plate.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce
Reduce heat to medium.
Melt 2 tablespoons butter in the same skillet.
Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the seafood broth and heavy cream.
Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until completely melted.
Season with Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce.
Return the seafood to the skillet.
Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
Heat for 2–3 minutes.
Do not overcook the seafood.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and basil.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and additional Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Cooking Tips
- Pat seafood dry before cooking to achieve a better sear.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
- Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cheese to prevent separation.
- Cook seafood only until just done to keep it tender.
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus for extra vegetables and flavor.
Approximate Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 serving (Recipe serves 4)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 640 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Total Sugars | 5 g |
| Total Fat | 36 g |
| Saturated Fat | 18 g |
| Cholesterol | 210 mg |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
| Potassium | 520 mg |
| Calcium | 380 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
| Vitamin A | 18% DV |
| Vitamin C | 12% DV |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Moderate (from seafood) |
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific brands of tortellini, seafood, cheese, and cream used.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 35 minutes.
- Rich, creamy, and restaurant-quality flavor.
- High in protein from shrimp, scallops, and crab.
- Easy to customize with your favorite seafood.
- Perfect for entertaining or weeknight dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Seafood tortellini is an elegant yet approachable dish that combines tender pasta, succulent seafood, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Whether you're preparing a cozy family dinner or hosting guests, this recipe delivers rich flavor, satisfying texture, and a beautiful presentation. Pair it with a crisp salad and warm garlic bread for a complete meal that is sure to impress.
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