Description
This creamy and flavorful Marry Me Tortellini recipe combines tender cheese tortellini with a rich garlic and sun-dried tomato cream sauce, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy yet impressive pasta dish perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Sauce and Pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned and drained (packed in oil)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1 20-ounce package cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, plus more for serving
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for garnish)
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the garlic base: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds, being careful not to let it brown.
- Create the roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and Italian seasoning, cooking for about 1 minute until the flour is fully incorporated and the mixture is slightly thickened to build the sauce base.
- Add liquids and sun-dried tomatoes: Add the julienned sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, then bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat to cook and thicken the sauce.
- Cook the tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Finish the sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy whipping cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Add spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, approximately 1 minute, to incorporate freshness and color into the dish.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes, chopped parsley or basil, and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy this creamy, savory pasta at its best.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Ensure not to overcook the tortellini; cook until tender but still firm to the bite.
- This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
