Creamy Tortellini Recipe

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Rich, indulgent, and utterly satisfying, Creamy Tortellini is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re serving it on a cozy weeknight or entertaining guests over a casual dinner, this dish hits all the right notes with its velvety sauce, tender pasta, and vibrant hints of herbs and vegetables. The creamy base envelops the cheese-filled tortellini, creating a mouthwatering balance of textures and flavors.

This dish comes together surprisingly quickly, making it a go-to favorite when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s versatile too—you can easily incorporate your favorite proteins or vegetables to customize it to your taste. One bite of this creamy, pepper-speckled delight and you’ll understand why it earns a spot in your regular meal rotation.

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Ingredients for this Creamy Tortellini

• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

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Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Add the Spinach

Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. Then add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a twist of black pepper if desired.

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Storage Instructions

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the cream-based sauce may separate.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of tortellini works best?

Cheese-filled tortellini is ideal, but you can also use spinach or meat-filled versions depending on your preference.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just be sure to cook it according to the package directions before adding it to the sauce.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian if you use cheese tortellini and ensure the Parmesan is rennet-free.

What vegetables can I substitute?

Try mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for different textures and flavors.

Can I add protein?

Absolutely—grilled chicken, shrimp, or crumbled sausage pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let the sauce simmer a bit longer, or add a bit more Parmesan cheese to achieve your desired consistency.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?

Use a plant-based cream and vegan cheese substitute, though the flavor will vary slightly.

How can I add a spicy kick?

Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level.

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