Creamy Tuscan Tortellini is a comforting, one-pan meal that brings together the bold, sun-kissed flavors of Italy in just 25 minutes. Cheese-filled tortellini are coated in a rich garlic cream sauce, enhanced with sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. It’s an ideal dinner option for busy weeknights or indulgent weekend meals, requiring minimal effort yet delivering maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Tuscan Tortellini recipe is the perfect balance of richness, freshness, and texture. It combines savory garlic, sweet cherry tomatoes, and earthy spinach with a decadent cream sauce that clings to each piece of cheese-stuffed tortellini. The dish is both luxurious and satisfying while being surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- olive oil
- garlic, minced
- cherry tomatoes, halved
- sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- fresh spinach
- heavy cream
- vegetable broth
- Italian seasoning
- crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- salt and pepper
- cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- grated Parmesan cheese
- fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and vegetable broth. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the tortellini directly into the sauce. Cook according to package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve warm.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per serving: Approximately 430 kcal
Variations
- Add protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier version.
- Use different greens: Substitute kale or arugula for spinach if preferred.
- Make it vegan: Use vegan tortellini, plant-based cream, and dairy-free Parmesan.
- Spicy twist: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
- Extra vegetables: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the tortellini may soften over time.
FAQs
What kind of tortellini should I use?
Fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini works best for this recipe due to its quick cooking time and soft texture.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly and ensure the sauce stays hot enough to cook the tortellini through.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, as long as the Parmesan cheese and tortellini used are made without animal rennet.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce in advance, but it’s best to cook the tortellini just before serving to maintain texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter option.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is mild with the optional red pepper flakes. Adjust to your preference.
Can I use dried tomatoes packed in oil?
Yes, just drain the oil before chopping and adding to the dish.
Will gluten-free tortellini work?
Yes, if you have access to gluten-free tortellini, it can be used without changing the recipe.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate and the tortellini texture may suffer.
What side dishes go well with this?
Serve with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
Conclusion
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini offers a satisfying, restaurant-quality experience at home with minimal effort. Its rich, velvety sauce, fresh vegetables, and cheesy pasta create a meal that is both indulgent and comforting. Whether served on a quiet evening or as the centerpiece of a casual dinner gathering, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy every palate.
Print
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this Creamy Tuscan Tortellini — cheese-filled tortellini enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused sun-dried tomato cream sauce with fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes. This one-pan vegetarian dinner is packed with bold Italian flavors, perfect for quick weeknight meals or comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
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1 tbsp olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
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2 cups fresh spinach
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup vegetable broth
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1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
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1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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18 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
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1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 3–4 minutes until tomatoes begin to soften.
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Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
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Pour in heavy cream and vegetable broth. Add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes.
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Add tortellini directly into the sauce and cook according to package directions (typically 3–5 minutes), stirring occasionally.
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Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
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Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve immediately.
Notes
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For extra richness, substitute half of the cream with cream cheese.
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Add cooked chicken or Italian sausage for a non-vegetarian version.
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Use frozen tortellini if needed; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
