Description
Creamy tortellini with tomatoes combines tender cheese-filled pasta with a rich tomato-cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners, this quick, versatile, and satisfying dish is a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sauté the Tomatoes: Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and bursting. Lightly crush a few tomatoes with a spoon to release their juices.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and thickened. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
- Combine Tortellini and Sauce: Add cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil, and serve hot. Top with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
- Customizations: Add protein (chicken, shrimp, or sausage), vegetables (spinach or mushrooms), or switch to a dairy-free alternative with coconut cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: main dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: italian inspired
Keywords: Creamy tortellini Tomato cream sauce pasta Quick weeknight dinners Cheese tortellini recipe Easy Italian recipes