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Creamy Spinach Tomato Tortellini

A quick, creamy tortellini skillet with spinach, tomatoes, and fresh herbs for a comforting weeknight meal.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 5 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 20 oz. refrigerated three-cheese tortellini package
  • 3 Tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 1/4 cups milk 2% recommended
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 14.5 oz. can petite diced tomatoes undrained
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach packed, chopped
  • 3 Tbsp fresh basil chopped
  • 2 tsp fresh oregano chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
  • salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese finely shredded, plus more for serving
  • red pepper flakes for serving (optional)

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the refrigerated tortellini according to package directions; reserve about 1/2 cup pasta cooking water, then drain.
  • While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic, flour, and onion powder to the melted butter and cook, stirring constantly, about 1 minute to form a roux.
  • Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth, then cook, stirring, until the sauce just begins to simmer and thickens slightly.
  • Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, chopped spinach, chopped basil, chopped oregano, and the shredded Parmesan; season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Reduce the heat slightly and cook a few more minutes until the sauce has thickened and the cheese has melted, removing from heat when done.
  • Toss the drained tortellini into the sauce, thinning with reserved pasta water or a splash of milk if needed to coat evenly.
  • Serve warm sprinkled with additional Parmesan and optional red pepper flakes.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large deep skillet or saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Whisk
  • Colander

Notes

  • Use 2% milk or whole milk for best creaminess.
  • Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • Fresh herbs brighten the dish; dried oregano can be used instead.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste after adding the cheese.