Creamy tomato tortellini is a rich and comforting pasta dish made with tender cheese-filled tortellini, a smooth tomato cream sauce, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. It is perfect for a quick and delicious homemade dinner.
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- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 470 kcal
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 20 ounces cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well.
- Add the heavy cream and Italian seasoning.
- Simmer the sauce gently for 3–4 minutes.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet.
- Toss gently until all the tortellini are coated with the sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Add the fresh basil and cook for another minute.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 470 kcal
- Protein: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
- Sodium: 690 mg
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 7 g
Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Tortellini
Do not overcook the tortellini because they can become too soft. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother sauce, and keep the heat low after adding the cream so the sauce stays rich and creamy.
Storage
Store leftover creamy tomato tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a small splash of milk or cream if the sauce becomes too thick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy tomato tortellini delivers a comforting pasta dinner without requiring a long ingredient list. Cheese-filled tortellini makes the dish satisfying, while tomato, cream, Parmesan, and basil create a smooth and flavorful sauce.
Ingredient Notes
- Cook the tortellini only until tender so it does not become too soft.
- Freshly grated Parmesan blends into the sauce better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Add fresh basil at the end to keep its flavor bright.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tortellini with garlic bread, a Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables. A little extra Parmesan and fresh basil can be added just before serving.
Easy Variations
- Stir in fresh spinach during the final minutes of cooking.
- Add cooked chicken for extra protein.
- Use a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy tomato cream sauce.
Helpful Recipe Notes
Kitchen Note
Add the cooked tortellini near the end and gently coat it in the sauce so the pasta keeps its shape.
Best Tip
Do not overcook refrigerated tortellini because it continues softening slightly while sitting in the hot sauce.
Ingredient Swap
Spinach tortellini or meat-filled tortellini can replace cheese tortellini for an easy variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes. Cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less creamy.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes. Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers work very well.
What can I serve with creamy tomato tortellini?
It goes well with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
