Creamy Tortellini with Spinach

A Comforting and Flavorful Pasta Dish

Creamy Tortellini with Spinach is a delightful and easy-to-make meal that combines tender cheese-filled tortellini with a rich and luscious cream sauce. The addition of fresh spinach provides a burst of color and nutrients, making it a well-balanced dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 20–30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for hectic evenings.
• Rich and Creamy – The luscious sauce coats each piece of tortellini, offering a satisfying, comforting taste.
• Nutritious – Spinach adds vitamins and minerals, enhancing the dish’s health benefits.
• Customizable – You can add proteins like chicken or sausage or swap in different cheeses and seasonings.
• One-Pan Convenience – Fewer dishes mean easier cleanup!

Ingredients

• 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for a lighter sauce)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until tender.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Sauce

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and melt the butter.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine.
4. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning.
5. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 3: Add Spinach and Tortellini

1. Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped spinach, stirring until wilted.
2. If using sun-dried tomatoes, stir them in at this stage.
3. Add the cooked tortellini and toss gently to coat in the creamy sauce.
4. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth to loosen it.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove from heat and let the dish sit for a minute to allow flavors to meld.
2. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.

Variations and Additions

• Protein Boost – Add cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp for extra protein.
• Different Greens – Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a twist.
• Extra Vegetables – Mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas can enhance the dish.
• Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and whole milk.
• Vegan Option – Swap dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives like coconut milk and vegan cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To prevent curdling, keep the heat at medium-low and avoid boiling the sauce. Stir continuously while adding the dairy ingredients.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, cook the tortellini fresh and combine it with the sauce just before serving.

What type of tortellini works best?

Fresh tortellini is ideal for the best texture, but frozen tortellini works well and may require slightly longer cooking.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich. If using, reduce the milk slightly to maintain thickness.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes! A splash of white wine (about 1/4 cup) added before the cream enhances the flavor.

What cheese can I use instead of Parmesan?

Try Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or Gruyère for a different twist.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer a bit longer, or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tsp each) to thicken it.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Tortellini with Spinach is a quick, comforting, and versatile dish that is sure to please any crowd. With its velvety sauce, tender pasta, and nutritious spinach, it’s a fantastic meal for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home!

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