Creamy Spinach Tortellini Recipe: One Bite and You’ll Be Hooked

Looking for a dish that’s easy, satisfying, and downright comforting? Look no further than this creamy spinach tortellini! With tender cheese tortellini, a luscious creamy sauce, and the goodness of fresh spinach, this recipe will indeed become a weeknight favorite. It’s simple to whip up and packed with flavor—perfect for busy nights when you need something quick and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 package (9 oz) of fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish (optional)

Equipment You’ll Need

• A pot to cook the tortellini
• A large skillet or pan to make the creamy sauce
• A spoon for stirring

Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini:
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes. Once they’re done, drain and set aside.
3. Sauté Garlic and Spinach:
4. While the tortellini is cooking, heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach) and cook until wilted about 2-3 minutes.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
6. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Keep stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce and it becomes smooth.
7. Combine Tortellini and Sauce:
8. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the creamy spinach sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring each piece of tortellini is coated in that rich, velvety sauce.
9. Taste and Adjust:
10. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Parmesan as needed. If you like extra garlic, sprinkle some garlic powder in it.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
12. Serve the creamy spinach tortellini hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Pair it with a side of garlic bread and a salad for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

• Add Protein: If you want to add a little more to your meal, add grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or even sausage to make it heartier.
• Lighter Version: Want to make it a bit lighter? Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even milk. It’ll still be creamy but with fewer calories.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use dairy-free tortellini and swap the cream for coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative. Add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!
• More Veggies: Feel free to toss some mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy spinach tortellini with garlic bread or a simple green salad. If you’re feeling fancy, a light glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with this dish.

Storage & Reheating

Got leftovers? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, creamy, and flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week. This creamy spinach tortellini will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling cozy and full. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out—enjoy!