Tortellini: 10 Best Recipes for Every Occasion
- Total Time: 13 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
his comforting one-pan dish features spinach and ricotta tortellini enveloped in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon freshly minced garlic
- 150 grams (5 1/2 ounces) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 2 large handfuls baby spinach leaves
- 600 grams (1 lb 5 oz) spinach and ricotta tortellini (fresh)
- 1 tablespoon Italian chili oil (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a heavy-based pan with a lid over medium–high heat. Add the diced red onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring, for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add Tomatoes: Incorporate the cherry or grape tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Gently press the tomatoes with the back of your spoon to release their juices.
- Introduce Liquids: Pour in the chicken stock and add the tomato paste. Stir for 1 minute to combine.
- Create Creamy Base: Add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and cracked black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach leaves until just wilted.
- Cook Tortellini: Add the fresh spinach and ricotta tortellini directly into the pan (no need to pre-cook). Stir to ensure the tortellini is well-coated with the sauce.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and cook for 2 minutes or until the tortellini is just cooked through.
- Serve: Top with extra Parmesan cheese and drizzle with Italian chili oil if desired. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 8 min
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Spinach and Ricotta Tortellini, Creamy Tomato Sauce, One-Pan Pasta
Table of Contents
Imagine pillowy pasta parcels, stuffed with rich cheeses or savory meats, swimming in a silky cream sauce or a vibrant tomato broth. Tortellini—the bite-sized Italian dumplings shaped like tiny navels—is the ultimate comfort food that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Legend has it that tortellini was inspired by the shape of Venus’ navel, crafted by a lovestruck innkeeper who peeked through her keyhole. Whether that’s true or not, one thing’s certain: these little pasta gems are magic. Perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or holiday feasts, tortellini dishes come together in 20 minutes or less. They’re family-friendly, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to make even picky eaters clean their plates. Think of them as the quicker, more elegant cousin of lasagna—no layering required! Ready to fall in love with pasta all over again? Let’s dive into 10 tortellini recipes that’ll make you the star of every kitchen.
What is Tortellini?
Why is it called tortellini? Did someone name it after their grandma? Or maybe it’s Italian for “tiny flavor bombs”? (Spoiler: It’s not.) The word tortellini comes from tortello, meaning “small pie” in Italian. But let’s be real—these stuffed pasta pockets are way more exciting than pie. They’re like edible jewelry, crafted to cradle fillings like prosciutto, ricotta, or spinach. And don’t forget the age-old saying: “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Tortellini might just be the shortcut. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself, mastering this dish is a win. Ready to roll? Let’s get stuffing!
Why You’ll Love This Tortellini
- Versatility is King: Tortellini shines in soups, salads, baked casseroles, or sautéed in garlic butter. It’s the Swiss Army knife of pasta.
- Budget-Friendly Brilliance: Skip the pricey Italian restaurant! Homemade tortellini costs a fraction of dining out, and frozen versions are just as tasty.
- Toppings Galore: Drown it in sage brown butter, toss it with pesto, or smother it in marinara. Add crispy pancetta, toasted pine nuts, or fresh basil for a flavor explosion.
Love lasagna? Tortellini alla crema is its quicker, creamier cousin—no oven required. Grab your apron and let’s turn dinner into a celebration!
How to Make Tortellini
Quick Overview
This dish is foolproof: boil, sauce, serve. Ready in 15 minutes! Perfect for creamy, cheesy, or light brothy versions.
Key Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) fresh or frozen tortellini (cheese, meat, or spinach filling)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 cup heavy cream or marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- Optional: garlic, spinach, cherry tomatoes, pancetta
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil: Cook tortellini in salted water until they float (4-5 mins for fresh, 8-10 for frozen). Drain gently.
- Sizzle: Heat olive oil in a pan. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden. Toss in spinach or pancetta for extra flair.
- Sauce It Up: Pour in cream or marinara. Simmer 2 mins. Add tortellini and toss to coat.
- Finish: Sprinkle Parmesan, crack black pepper, and garnish with basil. Serve immediately!
What to Serve With Tortellini
- Salads: Arugula with lemon vinaigrette cuts through richness.
- Bread: Garlic knots or crusty ciabatta for sauce-dunking.
- Proteins: Grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Wine: Pair creamy sauces with Chardonnay, tomato-based with Sangiovese.
Top Tips for Perfecting Tortellini
- Don’t Overcook: Tortellini turns mushy fast. Taste-test at the 4-minute mark!
- Fresh Herbs Rule: Swap dried basil for fresh—it’s a game-changer.
- Sauce Consistency: Too thick? Add pasta water. Too thin? Simmer longer.
- Vegetarian Hack: Use mushroom tortellini and veggie broth for a meat-free feast.
Storing and Reheating Tip
- Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked tortellini (sauce separate) for 2 months.
- Reheat: Microwave with a splash of water or warm in a skillet. Avoid boiling—they’ll fall apart!
Final Thoughts
Tortellini isn’t just pasta—it’s a blank canvas for creativity. Whether you’re craving cozy comfort or elegant flair, these recipes have you covered. So, grab a fork, twirl, and let every bite remind you that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. Hungry for more? Check out our guide to ravioli fillings next!