Description
Creamy Tortellini with Tomatoes
Craving a cozy meal that’s simple yet bursting with flavor? This Creamy Tortellini with Tomatoes is your answer! A perfect one-pan dish that brings comfort to your dinner table with minimal effort. The combination of creamy Parmesan sauce, juicy tomatoes, and tender tortellini makes it irresistible. Whether it’s cheese, veggie, or meat-filled tortellini, each bite is rich and satisfying. Plus, it’s ready in just about 30 minutes!
2 tsp olive or avocado oil
1 shallot, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
1/2 cup roasted red peppers
1 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/8 tsp black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, divided
2 cups chopped spinach
3 cups cooked cheese tortellini
Directions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook shallots and garlic for 3 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes until softened, pressing to release juices.
3. Mix in spices, red peppers, tomato paste, and cream. Simmer 2-3 minutes.
4. Add 1/2 cup Parmesan, tortellini, and spinach. Top with remaining cheese.
5. Adjust salt, garnish with herbs if desired.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 450 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect result every time. Start by gathering all ingredients and prepping your vegetables. Heat the oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced shallot and minced garlic, sautéing for 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Add the whole cherry tomatoes and cook for a full 10 minutes, using your spoon to gently press and burst them, releasing their sweet juices to form the sauce base.
Next, stir in the tomato paste, chopped roasted red peppers, salt, dried basil, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Cook for one minute to bloom the spices. Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to slightly thicken. Reduce heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup of the Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the cooked tortellini and chopped spinach, gently folding everything together until the spinach wilts. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan over the top just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy tortellini is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier dinner, serve it alongside grilled chicken or Italian sausages. A slice of crusty garlic bread is essential for soaking up every last bit of the delicious sauce. For a fresh garnish, top with chopped fresh basil or parsley and a crack of black pepper.
How-to Summary
Sauté shallots and garlic. Cook tomatoes until burst. Add spices, peppers, paste, and cream, then simmer. Stir in most of the Parmesan, then fold in cooked tortellini and spinach until combined. Top with remaining cheese and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, while tortellini is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute with cheese ravioli or even a short pasta like penne or rigatoni.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Note the sauce will be slightly less thick.
Can I add protein? Absolutely. Sautéed diced chicken, Italian sausage, or white beans can be added with the tortellini in step 4.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Can I use fresh tortellini? Yes, but add it directly to the simmering sauce in step 4 and cook according to package directions, which will thicken the sauce further.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid rushing the step of cooking the tomatoes; letting them fully soften and burst is crucial for building flavor. Do not use pre-grated Parmesan from a canister, as it contains anti-caking agents and won’t melt smoothly. Always use freshly grated cheese. Be careful not to boil the cream sauce after adding it, as high heat can cause it to separate or curdle. Maintain a gentle simmer. Finally, ensure your tortellini is cooked al dente before adding, as it will continue to soften slightly in the hot sauce.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tortellini with Tomatoes is the ultimate quick and comforting weeknight dinner. With its rich, velvety sauce, pops of sweet tomato, and satisfying pasta, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent yet comes together with ease. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and customize the dish to your liking. It’s a versatile recipe that promises a delicious, restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen in just 30 minutes.