Description
A quick and easy Creamy Tortellini with Spinach recipe featuring cheese-filled tortellini in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce with fresh spinach. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan dish is comforting, customizable, and packed with flavor
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
- 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)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions until tender.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and melt butter.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Add Spinach and Tortellini
- Reduce heat to low and add chopped spinach, stirring until wilted.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes (if using).
- Add cooked tortellini and toss gently to coat in the sauce.
- If needed, add broth to loosen the sauce.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat and let the dish sit for a minute to meld flavors.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.
Notes
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp.
- Vegetable Variations: Try kale, arugula, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Vegan Option: Swap dairy for plant-based alternatives.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Not recommended for freezing.
- Reheating: Warm on low with a splash of milk or broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: italian
Keywords: creamy tortellini, spinach pasta, easy weeknight dinner, one-pan pasta, tortellini recipe