Creamy Tortellini With Spinach

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy tortellini with spinach is the perfect comfort meal that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. This dish features tender, cheese-filled tortellini enveloped in a velvety cream sauce with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh spinach. It’s an ideal weeknight meal that comes together quickly, yet it tastes like something from a fine Italian restaurant. Plus, it’s easily customizable, making it a versatile choice for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• Fresh spinach
• Butter
• Garlic
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Nutmeg (optional)
• Italian seasoning

Directions

1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Prepare the Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce thicken for about 5 minutes.
4. Add Seasonings: Stir in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of nutmeg for depth of flavor.
5. Incorporate Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
6. Combine with Tortellini: Gently fold in the cooked tortellini, ensuring they are well-coated with the sauce. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
7. Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Let the dish simmer for another 2 minutes to marry the flavors.
8. Serve: Plate the tortellini and garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh cracked pepper. Serve warm.

Variations

• Protein Addition: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra heartiness.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Swap out heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Cheese Variety: Use Pecorino Romano or Gouda instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Freezing: While possible, freezing may alter the sauce’s texture. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use low heat when adding cream and stir frequently to maintain a smooth consistency.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the dish.

What type of tortellini works best?

Cheese-filled tortellini is traditional, but you can use any variety, including spinach or mushroom-filled.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.

Can I add mushrooms?

Absolutely! Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy addition.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let it simmer a little longer or stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables complements it well.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. To compensate, add a bit of butter and extra cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy tortellini with spinach is a quick, comforting, and delicious dish that can be tailored to any preference. Whether you keep it simple or add extra ingredients for variety, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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