Description

A quick and easy one-pot dinner featuring cheese-filled tortellini simmered in a rich, velvety sauce made with crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and fresh spinach. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality comfort food with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely diced
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
20–24 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
14 oz can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
4–5 oz fresh spinach
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Heat butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent and soft.
Add minced garlic and cook for the last 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2 minutes to meld flavors.
Pour in broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add tortellini, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 1 minute until wilted. Adjust consistency with water if too thick or simmer longer if too thin.
Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pot if doubling the recipe; cook in batches for best texture. Stir frequently to prevent dairy and starch from sticking to the bottom. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil, heavy cream with coconut milk, and Parmesan with nutritional yeast. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 475
Sugar: 6
Sodium: 680
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 12
Carbohydrates: 55
Fiber: 3
Protein: 18

Keywords: one pot pasta, creamy tortellini, spinach tomato pasta, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food, quick meals