Keto Creamy Cajun Tortellini
This hearty pasta dish combines tender cheese tortellini with succulent shrimp and smoky sausage in a rich, creamy sauce. The Cajun seasoning adds a warm spice that perfectly complements the heavy cream and Parmesan base, while colorful bell peppers and onions provide texture and sweetness. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests, this one-skillet meal delivers restaurant-quality flavors with straightforward preparation. The key is slightly undercooking the shrimp initially, as they'll finish cooking when combined with the hot tortellini and sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 16-ounce package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 ½ pounds medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon cajun or creole seasoning
- ½ medium yellow or sweet onion, diced
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- 8 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper(optional)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook tortellini according to package directions
- 2
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat
- 3
Add shrimp and sprinkle cajun seasoning over them
- 4
Cook just until shrimp turn pink and remove from pan
- 5
Add remaining olive oil to skillet along with onion, bell pepper and sausage
- 6
Cook until sausage is browned and vegetables are soft, about 5 to 7 minutes
- 7
Add garlic and cook 1 minute
- 8
Add butter, heavy cream, and thyme, plus cayenne if using
- 9
Simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken
- 10
Stir in parmesan cheese then add shrimp back
- 11
Check for seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste
- 12
Stir in tortellini and sprinkle with parsley
Tips
Slightly undercook the shrimp when first searing them, as they'll finish cooking when added back to the hot pasta and sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for the smoothest, creamiest sauce texture.
Cook the vegetables until soft to ensure they blend seamlessly into the creamy sauce base.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in airtight container
Cook pasta and prepare vegetables up to 1 day ahead, but cook shrimp fresh to avoid overcooking
Serve immediately while hot for best texture and flavor
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook shrimp initially to avoid rubbery texture when reheated
Add Parmesan cheese off heat to prevent breaking and grittiness
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp may release more water, so cook a bit longer to evaporate excess moisture.
What if I don't have Cajun seasoning?
Make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper, or substitute with Old Bay seasoning for similar flavor.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to restore creamy texture, as pasta absorbs sauce when stored.