Who doesn’t love a hearty, creamy pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor and ready in no time?
Enter the creamy spinach tomato tortellini – a one-pot wonder that combines the richness of a creamy tomato sauce with the freshness of spinach and the irresistible chewiness of tortellini.
Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner, this recipe is here to impress your taste buds and make dinnertime stress-free.
Ready to dive into pasta perfection?
Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this dish, gather the following ingredients:
- Tortellini: Fresh cheese-filled tortellini works best, but meat-filled is also an option.
- Creamy Base: Heavy cream or cream cheese for that luscious texture.
- Tomatoes: Use crushed, diced, or even fresh tomatoes for the sauce.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and nutrients.
- Aromatics: Garlic and onion create a flavorful base.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional).
- Cheese: Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for garnishing.
Optional additions:
- Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
- Alternative Greens: Swap spinach for kale or arugula.
How to Make Creamy Spinach Tomato Tortellini
Follow these simple steps to create this delicious meal:
- Prepare the Aromatics:
- Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sauté minced garlic and diced onion until fragrant and translucent.
- Create the Sauce:
- Stir in crushed or diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add heavy cream or cream cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Cook the Tortellini:
- Add the fresh tortellini directly into the sauce, along with a splash of water or broth. Simmer until the tortellini is cooked through and tender (typically 3-5 minutes).
- Add the Spinach:
- Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. This should only take 1-2 minutes.
- Season to Taste:
- Add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Stir to combine.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Plate the tortellini and top with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese. Add fresh basil for an extra pop of flavor.
Variations and Customizations
Make this dish your own with these variations:
- Add Protein: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or cooked sausage for a heartier meal.
- Switch the Greens: Kale or arugula make excellent substitutes for spinach.
- Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella or ricotta for an extra cheesy twist.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Enhance your meal with these serving ideas:
- Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables.
- Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Garnishes: Fresh basil, parsley, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flair.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, follow these tips:
- Storage: Place the tortellini in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
- Freezing: While tortellini can be frozen, the creamy sauce may change texture. Freeze only if necessary, and reheat gently.
FAQ’s
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they cook through.
What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, coconut cream, or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter option.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead, but the tortellini may absorb some sauce over time. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
One Pot Creamy Spinach Tomato Tortellini
This creamy spinach tomato tortellini recipe is a quick, comforting Italian dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining fresh tortellini, a rich tomato cream sauce, and vibrant spinach, this meal is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.With simple ingredients, customizable options, and a preparation time of just 30 minutes, it’s sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cheese-filled tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed or diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or cream cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach loosely packed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish optional
Optional additions:
- Protein: Grilled chicken shrimp, or Italian sausage
- Alternative Greens: Kale or arugula
Instructions
Prepare the Aromatics:
- Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add olive oil and sauté minced garlic and diced onion until fragrant and translucent.
Create the Sauce:
- Stir in crushed or diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add heavy cream or cream cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Cook the Tortellini:
- Add the fresh tortellini directly into the sauce, along with a splash of water or broth. Simmer until the tortellini is cooked through and tender (typically 3-5 minutes).
Add the Spinach:
- Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. This should only take 1-2 minutes.
Season to Taste:
- Add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Stir to combine.
Serve and Garnish:
- Plate the tortellini and top with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese. Add fresh basil for an extra pop of flavor.