Creamy Tortellini with Spinach: A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Pasta Dish

If you’re craving a comforting pasta that’s both creamy and packed with fresh flavors, this Creamy Tortellini with Spinach recipe is a delicious winner. Featuring tender cheese tortellini enveloped in a luscious sauce made with butter, garlic, and a blend of milk and cream, it strikes the perfect balance between rich and fresh. The addition of petite diced tomatoes adds a subtle tang and vibrant color, while fresh spinach and basil bring bright, herbaceous notes that lighten the dish beautifully.

This recipe is a fantastic weeknight dinner option because it’s easy to prepare yet feels indulgent enough for guests or special occasions. The sauce thickens perfectly thanks to a simple flour roux, and parmesan cheese adds a savory depth that ties all the flavors together. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or just want a satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour, this creamy tortellini will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Rich and creamy: The combination of butter, cream, and milk creates a velvety sauce.
  2. Fresh and flavorful: Spinach, basil, and tomatoes add vibrant, fresh notes.
  3. Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour with straightforward steps.
  4. Comfort food classic: Perfect for cozy dinners or when you need a comforting meal.
  5. Customizable: Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat or swap veggies as you like.

Ingredients

  • Cheese tortellini (refrigerated)
  • Butter (salted or unsalted)
  • All-purpose flour
  • Garlic cloves, minced
  • Onion powder
  • Milk
  • Heavy whipping cream
  • Petite diced tomatoes (canned)
  • Baby spinach leaves, chopped
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Variations

  • Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
  • Use fresh tomatoes: Swap canned diced tomatoes for fresh diced tomatoes in season.
  • Switch greens: Substitute kale, Swiss chard, or arugula for spinach.
  • Make it spicy: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Dairy-free option: Use plant-based milk and cream substitutes, and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and onion powder, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Sprinkle flour over the butter and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 4: Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Stir in the petite diced tomatoes, chopped spinach, fresh basil, and dried oregano. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Add salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese to taste. Stir until cheese melts into the sauce.
Step 7: Toss the cooked tortellini into the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
Step 8: Serve immediately, topped with extra parmesan cheese and optional crushed red pepper flakes.

Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Stir the roux constantly to avoid lumps in your sauce.
  • Use fresh garlic and basil for the best flavor punch.
  • Don’t overcook the spinach; just wilt it to retain bright color and nutrients.
  • Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more milk if too thick.
  • Parmesan cheese should be freshly grated for optimal melt and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this creamy tortellini hot, garnished with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out your meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
    Yes, just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.
  2. Can I substitute cream with all milk?
    You can, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
  3. Is this dish vegetarian?
    Yes, this recipe contains no meat but includes dairy.
  4. Can I add other vegetables?
    Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers work well.
  5. What if I don’t have fresh basil?
    Use dried basil but add it earlier in the cooking to release flavor.
  6. Can I make this gluten-free?
    Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free tortellini to adapt.
  7. How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?
    Whisk continuously when adding milk and cream to the roux.
  8. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
    Yes, but add fresh spinach and tortellini just before serving.
  9. How spicy is the dish?
    It’s mild by default; add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
  10. What cheese can I substitute for parmesan?
    Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great alternatives.

Conclusion

Creamy Tortellini with Spinach is a comforting and elegant pasta dish that effortlessly blends rich creaminess with fresh, vibrant flavors. It’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough to serve guests, making it a versatile staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal or a quick dinner with a gourmet touch, this recipe delivers every time. Enjoy the creamy sauce, tender tortellini, and fresh greens all in one satisfying bowl!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Tortellini with Spinach: A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Pasta Dish


  • Author: Norah
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A rich and comforting pasta dish featuring tender cheese tortellini in a creamy garlic sauce, brightened with fresh spinach, basil, and a touch of tomatoes. Perfect for a cozy dinner that comes together quickly and satisfies every time.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini

  • 2 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted)

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 ½ cups milk

  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream

  • 15-ounce can petite diced tomatoes*

  • 1 ½ cups baby spinach leaves, chopped

  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)


Instructions

  • Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

  • Sprinkle in the flour and onion powder, stirring constantly to make a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

  • Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

  • Stir in the petite diced tomatoes, chopped spinach, basil, and dried oregano. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

  • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

  • Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and toss gently to coat.

  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.

 

  • Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Use refrigerated tortellini for the best texture and flavor.

For a richer sauce, add a little more cream or cheese.

Substitute fresh diced tomatoes for canned if preferred, but reduce added salt.

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish, Pasta
  • Method: Stove-top
  • Cuisine: American, Italian

Keywords: creamy tortellini, spinach pasta, easy pasta recipe, cheesy tortellini, quick dinner

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating