Creamy Tortellini with Tomatoes

Short Description

Creamy Tortellini with Tomatoes is a delicious and comforting pasta dish that combines cheese-filled tortellini with a rich, velvety tomato cream sauce. With the perfect balance of tangy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and indulgent creaminess, this easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Rich & Creamy: A luscious, velvety sauce that perfectly coats every bite of tortellini.
• Minimal Ingredients: Simple pantry staples come together for a restaurant-quality dish.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with added proteins, veggies, or spice levels.
• One-Pan Meal: Fewer dishes and a hassle-free cooking process.

Ingredients

• Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• Cherry tomatoes (or diced tomatoes)
• Garlic
• Onion
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil or butter
• Tomato paste
• Vegetable or chicken broth
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Chop the garlic and onion. Halve cherry tomatoes if using fresh.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and soft.
3. Cook the Tomatoes: Add cherry tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes) and tomato paste. Cook until tomatoes soften and release their juices.
4. Add Seasoning & Broth: Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Pour in vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Cook the Tortellini: Add tortellini directly into the skillet, stirring to coat. Cover and simmer until tender.
6. Make It Creamy: Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Finish with Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
8. Garnish & Serve: Remove from heat, top with fresh basil or parsley, and serve immediately.

Variations

• Protein Addition: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for extra protein.
• Vegetable Boost: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free tortellini if needed.

Servings and Timing

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

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, but adjust cooking time according to package instructions.

What type of tomatoes work best?

Cherry tomatoes add sweetness, but canned diced tomatoes work well too.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, use half-and-half, milk, or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure the tortellini filling is vegetarian.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but the sauce may thicken upon standing. Reheat with extra liquid for best results.

What cheese works best for garnish?

Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds a great finishing touch.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

What proteins pair well with this dish?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer longer, or add more Parmesan cheese for a thicker texture.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy texture and cheesy tortellini make it a favorite for kids.

Conclusion

Creamy Tortellini with Tomatoes is a quick, flavorful, and comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you customize it with proteins and veggies or enjoy it as-is, this creamy, cheesy tortellini recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today for a satisfying and easy meal!

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