There’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy pasta dish, especially when it can be made in just one pan! This Creamy Tomato Tortellini (One Pan) is a quick and satisfying meal that brings together the rich flavors of tomatoes and the delightful texture of cheese tortellini. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up this dish while keeping your kitchen mess to a minimum.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Creamy Tomato Tortellini (One Pan) recipe is not only simple but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of garlic, tomato paste, and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the tender tortellini. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with your favorite vegetables or proteins. You’ll find yourself turning to this recipe time and again, whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a quiet dinner for one.

What You’ll Need

2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini – The star of the dish! Look for fresh tortellini for the best texture.
2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic.
2-3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor that’s hard to beat.
2 tablespoons tomato paste – Concentrated flavor that enhances the sauce.
1 (14 fluid ounce) can tomato sauce – Provides the base for the creamy sauce.
1 cup heavy/whipping cream – Makes the sauce wonderfully creamy.
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs to elevate the dish.
Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese for serving, to taste – A delicious finishing touch.

Cook’s Kit

Large skillet – A good quality skillet will ensure even cooking.
Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring and mixing the sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key for a great dish.
Grater – For freshly grating the parmesan cheese.

Creamy Tomato Tortellini (One Pan) — Do This Next

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter quickly!

Step 2: Add Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for deepening the flavor profile of your sauce.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Sauce

Pour in the can of tomato sauce, stirring to combine with the garlic and tomato paste mixture. Let this simmer for a few minutes to bring the flavors together.

Step 4: Creamy Goodness

Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. This will create a silky, creamy sauce that envelops the tortellini beautifully.

Step 5: Flavor It Up

Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings based on your preference, and let it simmer for another minute.

Step 6: Cook the Tortellini

Gently add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the sauce, stirring to ensure they are well coated. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the tortellini are tender and heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, remove from heat and serve immediately. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Seasonal Adaptations

Spring: Add fresh spinach or asparagus for a burst of color and nutrition.
Summer: Toss in cherry tomatoes or zucchini for a garden-fresh touch.
Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash for a seasonal twist.
Winter: Add kale or mushrooms for a hearty and comforting meal.

Avoid These Mistakes

Don’t overcook the tortellini; they should be tender but not mushy.
Be cautious with the garlic; burning it can ruin the flavor of the dish.
Ensure you’re using fresh ingredients, especially the tortellini, for the best results.
Don’t skip the seasoning; a little salt and pepper make a big difference in flavor.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To store leftovers, let the Creamy Tomato Tortellini cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place individual portions in freezer-safe containers, and it should last for about 2 months.

To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Reader Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.

What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter version?

You can substitute half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind it may alter the creaminess of the dish.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! You can use vegan tortellini and substitute coconut cream or a cashew cream for the heavy cream. Additionally, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to make it more filling. Just make sure to heat the protein through before serving.

Serve & Enjoy

Once your Creamy Tomato Tortellini (One Pan) is ready, serve it hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the comforting flavors that come together so effortlessly.

This recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a creamy, tomato-infused meal that brings warmth and joy to your dining table. Enjoy every creamy bite and savor the satisfaction of a homemade dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. You’ll find that this Creamy Tomato Tortellini (One Pan) will quickly become a staple in your recipe repertoire!

Creamy Tomato Tortellini (One Pan)

This Creamy Tomato Tortellini is a quick, comforting meal that combines rich flavors and creamy goodness in just one pan!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Dish:

2 packages refrigerated cheese tortellini (9 ounces each)
2 tablespoons butter
2-3 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can tomato sauce (14 fluid ounces)
1 cup heavy/whipping cream
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste
Freshly grated parmesan cheese for serving, to taste

Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Grater

Method

Instructions:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter quickly!
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for deepening the flavor profile of your sauce.
Pour in the can of tomato sauce, stirring to combine with the garlic and tomato paste mixture. Let this simmer for a few minutes to bring the flavors together.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. This will create a silky, creamy sauce that envelops the tortellini beautifully.
Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings based on your preference, and let it simmer for another minute.
Gently add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the sauce, stirring to ensure they are well coated. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the tortellini are tender and heated through.
Once cooked, remove from heat and serve immediately. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

Creamy Tomato Tortellini (One Pan)

Why You’ll Keep Making It

What You’ll Need

Cook’s Kit