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Homemade Creamy Tomato and Spinach Tortellini photo

Creamy Tomato and Spinach Tortellini

A quick, creamy tortellini dish with tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan ready in about 25 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 20 ounces refrigerator cheese tortellini
  • 2 tablespoons butter salted or unsalted
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1.5 cups milk
  • 0.5 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 15 ounce can petite diced tomatoes
  • 1.5 cups baby spinach leaves chopped
  • 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • crushed red pepper flakes for serving (optional)

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large saucepan
  • Colander
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente, drain well, and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until foaming.
  3. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 30 seconds, then add the minced garlic and onion powder and cook, stirring, for another 30 seconds.
  4. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking to make a smooth sauce.
  5. Continue cooking and stirring constantly until the sauce begins to simmer and slightly thickens.
  6. Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), chopped spinach, chopped basil, and dried oregano to the sauce, then taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
  7. Stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and the sauce is smooth.
  8. Remove the pan from the heat and fold the cooked tortellini into the sauce until well coated.
  9. Serve warm with extra Parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes on top, if desired.

Notes

  • To use fresh tomatoes, substitute 1½ cups diced fresh tomatoes plus 1 cup hot pasta water.
  • Season to taste after adding tomatoes, as canned tomatoes vary in saltiness.