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Creamy tortellini with tomatoes is one of my favorite quick and comforting meals. This dish combines soft cheese-filled pasta with a rich, creamy tomato sauce. You can make it in under 30 minutes.

You can easily make it on a busy weeknight or when you have guests over.

In my kitchen, I love how versatile this dish is. You can use fresh or frozen tortellini, making it practical no matter what you have on hand.

The addition of ingredients like garlic, spinach, or even diced fresh tomatoes elevates the flavors and makes the meal feel special. Each bowl not only delights the taste buds but also warms the soul.

I’ve experimented with various recipes and ingredients to get just the right balance of creaminess and flavor. Each time, I’ve been amazed by how simply you can create a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet effortless.

You’ll find that this creamy tortellini with tomatoes is sure to become a go-to dish in your home.

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Why You Will Love Creamy Tortellini With Tomatoes

Creamy Tortellini with Tomatoes is an incredibly delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of cheese-filled tortellini and a smooth tomato cream sauce.

You will enjoy its creamy texture that brings comfort to every bite. This dish feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for any time you crave comfort food.

It’s a convenient option for weeknight dinners. You can prepare it in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup since it cooks in just one pan.

Here’s what you can expect:

Simple Ingredients: Most need items like cheese tortellini, tomatoes, and cream, which you might already have at home.
Versatile Recipe: You can easily adapt it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a great way to clear out the fridge.
Impressive Presentation: When garnished with fresh herbs, it looks and tastes like a gourmet meal.

If you love soup, you can even turn this dish into a creamy tomato tortellini soup by adding more broth and adjusting the cream.

This recipe is one of the best tortellini recipes to add to your collection. Whether you serve it on a busy weekday or for guests, it’s sure to impress.

How To Make Creamy Tortellini With Tomatoes

Making creamy tortellini with tomatoes is simple and rewarding. This dish combines fresh tortellini with a rich tomato cream sauce for a delightful meal. Below are the ingredients, instruments needed, and step-by-step instructions to guide you.

Ingredients

To make this dish, you will need:

Fresh Tortellini: About 12 ounces, cheese-filled works best.
Butter: 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for flavor.
Shallot: 1, finely chopped for sweetness.
Fresh Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced for aroma.
Tomato Sauce: 1 cup for the base.
Heavy Cream: 1 cup to create a rich texture.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated, for topping (optional).

These ingredients come together to create a comforting and delicious dish.

Instruments

You will need the following kitchen tools:

Large Pot: For boiling the tortellini.
Large Skillet: For preparing the sauce.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir ingredients without scratching your pans.
Knife: To chop shallots and garlic.
Measuring Cups: For accurate measurements of liquids.
Colander: For draining the tortellini after cooking.

These tools will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Step By Step Instruction

Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh tortellini and cook as per package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes. Once they float to the top, they are done. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and sauté for about 2 minutes until soft. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Stir in 1 cup of tomato sauce and allow it to simmer for a minute. Then add 1 cup of heavy cream to create a creamy tomato sauce. Mix well. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and gently stir to coat them evenly. Let them cook for an additional minute to absorb the flavors. Remove from heat and serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy tortellini with tomatoes!

Tips & Tricks

One-Pot Cooking: To save time and clean-up, cook your tortellini directly in the sauce. It absorbs flavor and reduces the number of dishes.
Add More Veggies: Boost nutrition by adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to your dish. You can mix these in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the tortellini as it cooks. Fresh tortellini usually takes about 3-5 minutes, while frozen may need 7-9 minutes.
Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for about 3-4 days.
Freezer Staple: This dish freezes well. Portion it into containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce creamy. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding grated cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley as a garnish. This adds freshness and extra flavor to your meal.

Ingredient Substitute

When making creamy tortellini with tomatoes, you may need to substitute some ingredients. Here are some common swaps:

Tortellini: Use frozen tortellini for convenience or cheese-filled tortellini for extra flavor.
Cream: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream to lighten the dish.
Cheese: If you don’t have parmesan cheese, try grated parmesan cheese or a vegan cheese alternative.

For herbs and spices:

Basil: Use dried basil in place of fresh basil if needed. About one teaspoon of dried equals one tablespoon of fresh.
Italian Seasoning: This can replace individual herbs like oregano or thyme to keep things simple.

For added texture and flavor:

Spinach: Fresh spinach can be swapped with frozen spinach. Just thaw and drain it before adding.
Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes in your soup for different textures. Roasted red peppers can add a smoky flavor if you want to mix it up.

In the broth:

Vegetable broth is a great substitute for chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
Tomato sauce can also replace tomato paste if you prefer a smoother base.

These substitutes can help you adjust the recipe to fit your pantry and personal tastes.

What To Serve With Creamy Tortellini With Tomatoes

When enjoying creamy tortellini with tomatoes, you want to choose sides that enhance the meal. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: This warm and buttery addition is perfect for soaking up extra sauce. It’s a favorite for many, including picky eaters.
Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta. You can use a simple mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette to balance flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Consider serving seasonal roasted veggies. They bring color and nutrients to your plate.

These sides complement the rich flavors of your dish. They also offer a variety of textures that make the meal more enjoyable. Choose one or a combination based on your preferences and those of your guests.

Nutrition Facts In List Form

Calories: 290 (per ⅔ cup of creamy tomato tortellini)
Serving Size: 75g or about 0.75 cup
Macronutrient Breakdown:
- Carbohydrates: 69%
- Fat: 19%
- Protein: 12%
Fats:
- Total Fat: 6g (8% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 2g (8% Daily Value)
Protein:
- 16% of your Daily Value per serving
Carbohydrates:
- Amount varies based on brand, but can be about 43g per serving
Additional Nutrients:
- Contains vitamins and minerals, depending on specific ingredients used.

Make sure to check specific brands for exact nutritional information, as values can vary.