One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini with Garlic Bread

There’s something so comforting about a meal that combines creamy, dreamy pasta with the warm, garlicky crunch of fresh bread. This One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini with Garlic Bread is exactly that—a luscious, flavorful dinner that comes together quickly in one pot, minimizing cleanup, and maximizing satisfaction. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a cozy Italian-inspired dish that feels special without any fuss. The tender cheese tortellini simmers in a rich tomato cream sauce infused with garlic and basil, then gets topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil leaves. Paired with a side of homemade garlic bread, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it combines simplicity, flavor, and convenience all in one pot. The key is using cheese tortellini, which cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce beautifully. By cooking everything together—from garlic to tomatoes to broth and cream—you layer flavors without dirtying multiple pans. The dried basil adds an herby note that complements the freshness of the garnishing basil leaves. Adding Parmesan cheese at the end gives a sharp, nutty finish that rounds out the richness of the sauce. And let’s not forget the garlic bread—made with soft butter, garlic powder, and parsley on a crusty Italian loaf—it’s the perfect crunchy, buttery partner to the creamy pasta.

If you’re looking for a meal that feels indulgent but comes together in less than 30 minutes, this Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini with garlic bread ticks all the boxes.

What Goes In

• 2 cups cheese tortellini – fresh or refrigerated works best for a tender, cheesy bite
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – to sauté the garlic and infuse flavor
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – the aromatic base of the sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – for that fresh tomato essence and a bit of texture
• 1 cup vegetable broth – adds depth and thins the sauce for perfect consistency
• 1 cup heavy cream – the star ingredient for a creamy, velvety sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – layers in herbal brightness
• Salt and pepper to taste – to balance and enhance all the flavors
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for a nutty, savory finish
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish – adds freshness and color
• 1 loaf Italian bread – crusty and perfect for garlic bread
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened – to spread on the bread for richness
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for that garlicky punch on the bread
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley – for a hint of herbal freshness on the garlic bread

Must-Have Equipment

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with a lid – ideal for cooking the tortellini and sauce in one pot
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring without scratching your pan
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure perfect ingredient amounts
• Baking sheet – for toasting the garlic bread until golden and crisp
• Sharp knife and cutting board – for mincing garlic and slicing bread

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini with Garlic Bread: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix softened butter with garlic powder and dried parsley until well combined. Slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise, then spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each half. Place the bread on a baking sheet, buttered side up. Set aside for now—you’ll bake it later while the tortellini finishes cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Heat olive oil in your large deep skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the oil and builds the flavor base for your sauce.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Basil

Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Add the vegetable broth and sprinkle in the dried basil, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld together for 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Add the 2 cups of cheese tortellini directly into the simmering sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the tortellini is tender—usually around 5 to 7 minutes depending on the package instructions.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Let the sauce heat through until it’s warm and creamy but not boiling. Remove the pan from heat and fold in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Bake the Garlic Bread

While your sauce is finishing up, place the prepared garlic bread in the oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the bread is toasted and butter has melted into a golden crust.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Spoon the creamy tomato basil tortellini into bowls or plates. Top with fresh basil leaves for a bright, herbaceous pop. Slice the warm garlic bread and serve it alongside for dipping and savoring every bite.

What to Use Instead

• Tortellini: If you can’t find cheese tortellini, use cheese ravioli or any fresh filled pasta.
• Heavy Cream: Coconut cream or a blend of cream cheese and milk can be a substitute for a creamy texture.
• Vegetable Broth: Chicken broth or water with a pinch of salt works fine.
• Italian Bread: Any crusty baguette or sourdough loaf can be swapped for garlic bread.

If You’re Curious

This recipe is a fantastic example of how a few simple pantry staples can come together to create a rich, flavorful dish. The use of dried basil keeps it accessible year-round, but fresh basil leaves at the end elevate the presentation and taste. This dish highlights how one-pot meals can be both elegant and practical—perfect for cooking beginners and seasoned home cooks alike.

Pair this meal with a refreshing green salad or some oven-roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner. For something extra crispy on the side, try making Oven Baked Fries—they complement the creamy pasta beautifully!

Make Ahead Like a Pro

You can prepare the tomato basil sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add the cream and tortellini just before serving to keep the pasta fresh and tender. Garlic bread can also be prepped in advance and baked right before serving to maintain its crispiness. This strategy makes dinner time stress-free without sacrificing flavor.

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works well. Just add a minute or two to the cooking time since frozen pasta takes slightly longer to cook through.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a plant-based Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu cubes can be stirred in after the tortellini cooks to make a heartier meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

What to Make After This

• Try the luscious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo for a different kind of creamy pasta experience.
• For a crispy, crowd-pleasing side, bake up some Oven Baked Fries that go perfectly with this meal.

Let’s Eat

There’s nothing quite like twirling cheesy tortellini in a rich, tomato-infused cream sauce and grabbing a crispy slice of garlic bread to soak up every last drop. This One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini with Garlic Bread recipe is a celebration of comfort food made simple, delicious, and satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish delivers warmth, flavor, and ease in every bite.

Give it a try tonight and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, garlicky, and herbaceous goodness—your taste buds will thank you!

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