Creamy Tomato Tortellini Recipe
Introduction
This luscious Creamy Tomato Tortellini features tender tortellini nestled in a rich and velvety tomato sauce. It’s easy to prepare and wonderfully satisfying, perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and casual entertaining. Pair it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated tortellini
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a skillet, sauté garlic in a little olive oil over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 3: Add crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning to the skillet, then simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Step 4: Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Step 5: Add the drained tortellini to the sauce, tossing gently to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6: Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use spinach or cheese-filled tortellini for extra flavor and variety.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Top with extra Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for enhanced richness.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dry tortellini for this recipe?
Yes, but dry tortellini will require a longer cooking time according to package instructions before adding to the sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, use dairy-free cream alternatives and vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast, and ensure the tortellini does not contain eggs or cheese.
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Creamy Tomato Tortellini Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Tomato Tortellini is a simple yet indulgent dish featuring tender cheese tortellini bathed in a rich and velvety tomato cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual entertaining, this recipe combines the tang of crushed tomatoes with fragrant garlic, Italian herbs, and Parmesan cheese, finished with fresh basil for a flavorful finish. Serve alongside garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Tortellini
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated tortellini
Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook tortellini: Prepare the refrigerated tortellini according to the package instructions, typically boiling in salted water until they float to the surface. Once cooked, drain well and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
- Simmer tomato sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning to the skillet with garlic. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese into the tomato sauce until fully combined and the sauce turns a creamy pink color.
- Combine tortellini and sauce: Add the cooked tortellini into the skillet and stir gently to coat them evenly with the creamy tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately. Pair with garlic bread and a fresh salad if desired.
Notes
- Use refrigerated tortellini for best texture and quickest cooking time.
- The sauce can be adjusted to taste by varying the amount of cream or Parmesan cheese.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Fresh basil adds a bright note; if unavailable, dried basil can be substituted but add earlier in the cooking process.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid separation of the cream.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: tortellini, creamy tomato sauce, Italian pasta, easy dinner, quick meal
