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–+ servings
Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Cream Sauce

Creamy Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Cream Sauce Bliss

This Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Cream Sauce is a quick, vegetarian-friendly meal that comes together in under 15 minutes and is packed with flavor.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Tortellini
  • 1 pkg Cheese tortellini 16-oz pkg; substitute with gluten-free tortellini if needed.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 can Tomato sauce 14.5oz can; alternative: Use homemade tomato puree for fresh flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Salt Enhances overall flavor—adjust according to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Pepper Adds mild heat; substitute with white pepper for a subtle difference.
  • 1 1/2 tsp Dried basil Fresh basil can be used for a brighter flavor.
  • 1 tsp Minced garlic Optionally, use garlic powder in a pinch.
  • 2 Tbsp All-purpose flour For thickening; substitute with cornstarch for gluten-free.
  • 3/4 cup Milk Can use any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 3/4 cup Half and half Substitute with a mixture of milk and cream if needed.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan alternative.
For the Spinach
  • 1 cup Baby spinach (julienned) Adds nutrition and color.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large saucepan
  • colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until they float and are tender. Drain the tortellini in a colander and set aside while you prepare the creamy tomato sauce.
  2. In a separate large saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, dried basil, and minced garlic. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes, until the mixture begins to bubble and releases a delightful aroma.
  3. While the sauce is bubbling, whisk together the all-purpose flour, milk, and half and half in a separate bowl until smooth. Gradually stir the creamy mixture into the saucepan, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
  4. After thickening, reduce the heat to low and add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Gently fold in the drained tortellini and the julienned baby spinach, mixing carefully to combine and coat everything in the rich sauce.
  5. Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the pan from the heat. Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 14gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

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