Description
A quick and easy weeknight dinner that combines refrigerated tortellini, crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and fresh spinach in a single pot for minimal cleanup and maximum comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package (24 oz) refrigerated cheese or meat tortellini
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 3–4 cups (about 85g) fresh baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mince garlic, chop basil, and grate Parmesan cheese. Set spinach aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not brown.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Let bubble for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in refrigerated tortellini, ensuring they are submerged. Cover with a lid (slightly ajar) and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tortellini are tender.
- Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese until smooth and glossy.
- Toss in fresh spinach and stir for 30-60 seconds until wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in fresh basil. Serve immediately topped with remaining Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Do not drain the pasta; the starchy liquid helps thicken the sauce. Always remove the pot from heat before adding cream and cheese to prevent separation. If using dried tortellini, increase liquid to 2.5 cups and cook for 12-15 minutes. This recipe does not freeze well due to the dairy content.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 680
- Fat: 24
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 55
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 18
Keywords: one-pot meal, creamy tomato tortellini, weeknight dinner, easy pasta, vegetarian, family friendly, quick recipes