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This creamy spinach tomato tortellini combines tender stuffed pasta with a rich tomato cream sauce and a touch of spinach for a comforting and family-friendly meal. It is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a hearty, satisfying dish that comes together in just one pan.
I first made this when trying to sneak veggies into my kids' dinner and now it is a weekly favorite for the whole family
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef: for savory depth and protein
- 1 onion diced: to build the flavor base
- 2 garlic cloves diced: for aromatic richness
- 16 ounces pasta sauce: to create a creamy tomato foundation
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: for smoothness and indulgence
- 2 pounds packaged tortellini: for a filling pasta element
- 1 tablespoon garlic parsley salt: to enhance overall taste
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley: for a subtle herb flavor
- 2 cups chopped spinach: to add color and nutrition
- 1 cup grated Parmesan: for a salty nutty finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients:
- Chop the onions and garlic and have all ingredients measured and ready. This streamlines cooking and prevents overcooking anything.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Add the onions and garlic and cook until softened and fragrant.
- Add the Sauce and Cream:
- Pour in the pasta sauce and allow it to simmer gently. Stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add the Tortellini and Spices:
- Toss the tortellini into the sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with garlic parsley salt and dried parsley, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
- Finish with Spinach and Parmesan:
- Add the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the creamy sauce. Serve immediately.
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This dish is my comfort food go-to, and I love using Trader Joe's cheese-filled tortellini for the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor. One memorable night I made this during a family movie marathon and it became an instant tradition.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave over low heat to maintain the sauce texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ground beef for Italian sausage or turkey for a different flavor profile. Tortellini can be replaced with other pasta shapes such as fusilli or paccheri, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a fresh garden salad or homemade Caesar salad for brightness. Serve with a slice of crusty baguette to scoop up the creamy sauce.
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Cultural Context
Tortellini is a traditional Italian stuffed pasta, often filled with cheese or meat. Combining it with a tomato cream sauce and spinach is a modern twist that keeps the dish approachable for all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini work perfectly. Just simmer them in the sauce a few minutes longer until tender.
- → Do I need to boil the tortellini first?
No, the tortellini cook directly in the creamy sauce, which keeps them flavorful and prevents overcooking.
- → What can I substitute for ground beef?
Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms or lentils work well.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook it ahead and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- → What can I serve alongside tortellini?
A crisp garden salad or homemade Caesar salad pairs well, and crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- → Can I freeze creamy tortellini?
It’s not recommended, as the cream sauce tends to separate and the pasta can become mushy after thawing.