Creamy Tortellini with Tomatoes Recipe

Creamy tortellini with tomatoes is a quick and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners. This recipe combines tender cheese-filled tortellini with a rich, creamy tomato sauce, creating a flavorful meal that everyone will love. It’s simple to make yet feels elegant enough for a special occasion.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander

Ingredients Overview

• Tortellini: Cheese or spinach-filled tortellini work best, but you can use your favorite variety.
• Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes provide a fresh, tangy base.
• Cream: Heavy cream or half-and-half adds richness to the sauce.
• Garlic: Enhances the flavor with aromatic depth.
• Cheese: Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a savory finish.
• Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley complement the creamy tomato sauce beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini

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

2. Prepare the Sauce

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
2. Add halved cherry tomatoes (or canned tomatoes). Cook until softened and slightly blistered, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional).

3. Combine Tortellini and Sauce

1. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta in the creamy tomato sauce.
2. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and stir to combine.

4. Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil and parsley.
2. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

Recipe Tips

• Customize the Dish: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for extra protein.
• Use Fresh or Canned Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring brightness, while canned tomatoes provide convenience.
• Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it longer to reduce, or add a small amount of grated cheese to thicken.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Side Options: Garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables pair well.
• Beverages: Serve with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water infused with lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Cook the tortellini just before combining.

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works just as well; just adjust cooking times based on package instructions.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cheese tortellini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil and parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook tortellini in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add tomatoes and cook until softened.
3. Stir in heavy cream, seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with basil and parsley.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

This creamy tortellini with tomatoes recipe is a comforting and versatile dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Creamy tortellini with tomatoes

Creamy tortellini with tomatoes is a quick and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners. This recipe combines tender cheese-filled tortellini with a rich, creamy tomato sauce, creating a flavorful meal that everyone will love. It's simple to make yet feels elegant enough for a special occasion.

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Ingredients

  

• 1 lb cheese tortellini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes halved (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes optional
• Fresh basil and parsley for garnish

Instructions

 

• Cook tortellini in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add tomatoes and cook until softened.
• Stir in heavy cream, seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
• Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with basil and parsley.
• Serve warm and enjoy!
• This creamy tortellini with tomatoes recipe is a comforting and versatile dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!