Creamy Tortellini with Spinach is a cozy, satisfying pasta dish featuring tender cheese-filled tortellini bathed in a garlic parmesan cream sauce and studded with fresh spinach. This one-pan wonder comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on comfort or flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish strikes the perfect balance between rich and fresh. The velvety cream sauce, flavored with garlic and parmesan, clings beautifully to the pasta while fresh spinach and optional tomatoes add color and brightness. It’s hearty without being heavy, versatile, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or just need a quick dinner fix, this recipe is a go-to comfort food classic.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
1½ cups heavy cream
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes or diced fresh tomato (optional)
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
Add the cheese tortellini to the sauce. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini are heated through and tender.
If using sun-dried tomatoes or fresh diced tomatoes, stir them in at this stage.
Add the chopped spinach and gently stir until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly and all ingredients are well combined.
Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan or freshly cracked pepper if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 580 kcal

Variations

Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a more filling meal.
Vegetarian Additions: Include mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or peas for added texture and nutrition.
Lightened Version: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, adjusting the thickness with a bit of flour or cornstarch.
Spicy Twist: Use extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for more heat.
Cheese Swap: Try Asiago or Romano cheese in place of parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate and the tortellini can become mushy after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, cook the frozen tortellini separately according to package instructions, then add to the sauce to finish.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, as long as the cheese in the tortellini and parmesan is rennet-free.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

You can substitute with ravioli or gnocchi, though the creamy sauce pairs especially well with tortellini.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk, cream, or pasta cooking water to loosen it.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but it can be made a few hours in advance and gently reheated.

What kind of spinach works best?

Fresh baby spinach is ideal. If using frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all seasonings and cheeses are certified gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger skillet and adjust cooking times slightly for even heating.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Can I bake this dish?

Yes. Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella or parmesan, and broil until golden and bubbly.

Conclusion

Creamy Tortellini with Spinach is a deliciously indulgent yet easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy nights and special dinners alike. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it delivers maximum flavor and comforting satisfaction in every bite. Serve it with your favorite sides or enjoy it as a standalone dish—it’s sure to become a household favorite.

Creamy Tortellini with Spinach

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Creamy Tortellini with Spinach is a rich, one-pan pasta dish that brings together tender cheese tortellini, a velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce, and fresh wilted spinach. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights and pasta lovers alike.

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add cheese tortellini and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until heated through and tender. Stir in sun-dried or fresh tomatoes if using.
Add spinach and let it wilt, stirring gently to combine.
Simmer for 2–3 more minutes, until sauce thickens slightly.
Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan or freshly cracked black pepper.