Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy tortellini with tomatoes is a simple yet indulgent meal that combines the best of comfort food with fresh ingredients. The soft, pillowy cheese tortellini pairs perfectly with a creamy garlic sauce, while the cherry tomatoes bring a burst of juicy flavor. The addition of fresh spinach (or basil) adds color and a nutritional boost. Topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, this dish is a mouthwatering masterpiece that is as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 10 oz cheese tortellini (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or basil leaves)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften and begin to burst.
- Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach until the spinach wilts.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy pasta dish perfect for any day of the week!
Servings and timing
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 400 kcal per serving
Variations
- Swap the spinach for basil: For a more aromatic flavor, use fresh basil leaves instead of spinach. It’ll give the dish a lovely fragrance and a slight sweetness.
- Add protein: To make it a more hearty meal, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sausage to the dish.
- Use a different cheese: If you don’t have Parmesan, try using mozzarella or pecorino for a different flavor profile.
- Make it dairy-free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan for a dairy-free version of this dish.
- Roast the tomatoes: For a deeper flavor, try roasting the cherry tomatoes before adding them to the sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover creamy tortellini can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the dish on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well. Just follow the package instructions for cooking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply cook the tortellini when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I make this recipe without cream?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk, though the texture may be lighter.
4. What if I don’t have fresh tomatoes?
You can use canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes if fresh tomatoes aren’t available. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
5. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While tortellini adds a great texture and flavor, any small pasta, such as penne or farfalle, will work.
6. How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic, or use a spicy Italian sausage for a flavorful kick.
7. Can I freeze leftovers?
This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream sauce, as it may separate when reheated. It’s best eaten fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.
8. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, you can reduce the heavy cream further by simmering it for an extra 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
9. Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can leave it out or substitute it with another hard cheese like Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano.
10. What can I serve with this dish?
This creamy tortellini pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
This creamy tortellini with tomatoes is a quick, easy, and absolutely delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With a creamy, cheesy sauce and the perfect balance of savory and fresh flavors, it’s a dish that will satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you make it exactly as written or add your own twist, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
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Deliciously Creamy Tortellini with Tomatoes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy tortellini with tomatoes is a rich, indulgent dish that brings together the comforting goodness of cheese-filled tortellini, a creamy garlic sauce, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Fresh spinach or basil adds a pop of color and nutrition, while Parmesan cheese enhances the creamy texture. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make recipe is quick, flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and a handful of easy steps, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers!
Ingredients
- 10 oz cheese tortellini (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or basil leaves)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini: Follow package instructions to cook the tortellini. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and beginning to burst.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine tortellini and sauce: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach, allowing the spinach to wilt.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitutes: Swap spinach for basil for a fragrant twist, or add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Use dairy-free cream or cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
