If you crave a simple, tasty meal, you’re in the right place! Our One-Pan Tomato Spinach Tortellini combines fresh spinach, creamy sauce, and cheesy tortellini into a delicious dish. This easy recipe requires minimal cleanup and is packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or just for yourself, you’ll love how quick and satisfying this meal is. Let’s dive into the delicious details and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 9 oz cheese tortellini
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 can diced tomatoes with herbs
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves
The main ingredients make this dish shine. You need cheese tortellini, which gives a nice texture. Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients. Diced tomatoes with herbs bring a rich flavor. Vegetable broth enriches the sauce. Heavy cream makes it creamy and smooth.
For seasoning, olive oil is key. It helps with flavor and keeps garlic from burning. Garlic adds a warm aroma. Italian seasoning gives it a classic touch. Salt and pepper enhance all the tastes. Finally, you’ll want grated Parmesan cheese for topping. Fresh basil leaves make it look lovely and add freshness.
This dish is simple and quick. Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Ingredients
– Heat olive oil and sauté garlic: Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add two cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute. You want the garlic to be fragrant but not brown.
– Prepare tortellini according to package instructions: While the garlic cooks, grab your cheese tortellini. You will need 9 ounces. Check the package for cooking times. This step is crucial for a great texture.
Cooking the Dish
– Combine diced tomatoes and vegetable broth: Once the garlic is ready, pour in one can of diced tomatoes. Make sure to include the juices for more flavor. Then add one cup of vegetable broth. Stir everything together.
– Add tortellini and let simmer: Now, add the tortellini to the pan. Let the mixture simmer gently. Cook the tortellini for about 3 to 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
– Stir in heavy cream and seasonings: After the tortellini is tender, add half a cup of heavy cream. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Allow it to simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes. This will create a creamy sauce.
Final Touches
– Incorporate spinach and adjust seasoning: Next, mix in 2 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and heats through.
– Add garnishes before serving: Remove the skillet from heat. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your dish!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
How to prevent tortellini from sticking
To keep the tortellini from sticking together, stir them often. This helps them float in the broth. You can also add a bit of olive oil to the cooking water. Just a teaspoon will do. This will coat the pasta and keep it from clumping.
Best practices for sautéing garlic
When you sauté garlic, keep a close watch. Garlic cooks fast. I usually heat my oil first, then add minced garlic. Sauté it for about one minute. You want it to smell great but not burn. If it burns, it will taste bitter.
Ingredient Substitutions
Alternatives for heavy cream
If you want a lighter dish, use half-and-half or whole milk. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. It adds a nice flavor and creaminess without the heaviness.
Using frozen spinach instead of fresh
Frozen spinach works well too! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out the water before adding. It’s a time-saver and still gives you that green goodness in your dish.
Enhancing Flavor
Suggested additional spices
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika. These spices bring warmth and depth. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs, like thyme or oregano, for a fresh taste.
Recommended serving suggestions
Serve your tortellini with a side salad or crusty bread. Both add crunch and balance to the creamy dish. You can also top it with extra grated Parmesan cheese for a rich finish. Enjoy your meal!
Variations
Different Protein Options
You can easily change the protein in this dish. Adding chicken or shrimp makes it heartier. For chicken, cook bite-sized pieces in the skillet before adding garlic. When using shrimp, add them after the tortellini. They cook fast and add great flavor.
If you want vegetarian options, try chickpeas or white beans. They give protein without meat. Just stir them in with the spinach for a boost.
Alternative Vegetable Additions
Feel free to mix in other vegetables. Kale or Swiss chard works well with this dish. You can also add peppers or zucchini for a different taste.
Adjust your veggies based on the season. In spring, try asparagus or peas. In fall, add roasted butternut squash for a cozy vibe.
Sauces and Flavor Profiles
You can switch up the sauce for new flavors. For a creamy twist, use Alfredo or pesto sauce. This makes the dish richer and more indulgent.
If you like spice, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This will give your dish a nice kick. You can also try adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for extra depth.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your One-Pan Tomato Spinach Tortellini fresh, place it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. Properly stored, it lasts up to three days. For best results, let it cool before sealing.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, you have a few options. You can use the microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots. On the stovetop, add a splash of broth or cream. This keeps the dish creamy and tasty.
Freezing Options
You can freeze this dish for later. First, cool it completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. This dish can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use dry tortellini instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dry tortellini. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Dry tortellini usually takes about 8-10 minutes to cook. Follow the package instructions for best results.
How to make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer great options. Check your local store for choices. Ensure the vegetable broth is also gluten-free.
Cooking Time Inquiries
How long does it take to cook tortellini?
Fresh tortellini cooks quickly. It usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Check the package for specific times. Dry tortellini needs about 8-10 minutes.
What is the best way to know if tortellini is done?
Taste a piece of tortellini. It should be soft but still firm. If it feels chewy, give it more time. Look for it to float in the water when it’s done.
Additional Serving Ideas
What to serve with One-Pan Tomato Spinach Tortellini?
This dish pairs well with a simple salad. Garlic bread also makes a great side. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for added flavor.
Can this be served as a meal prep option?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. Store it in airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.
This blog post outlines a simple and tasty recipe for One-Pan Tomato Spinach Tortellini. You learned about the fresh ingredients, easy cooking steps, and smart tips to boost flavor. I shared ways to adjust the recipe for different diets and preferences. Lastly, I explained how to store leftovers properly. By following these steps, you can enjoy a delicious meal with ease. Experiment with variations to make it your own, and enjoy your cooking journey!
