Lately, I’ve developed a strong fondness for cheese tortellini. It’s incredibly convenient to prepare, just like plain pasta, but with the added bonus of a satisfying cheese filling. This simple addition instantly elevates any pasta dish, making it heartier even without the inclusion of meat. Recently, I whipped up a delightful Spinach Tortellini Skillet, inspired by our beloved Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta recipe. This version is even easier to make (no need to chop onions!) and offers a more substantial meal. I sincerely hope you enjoy it!
What’s in This Tortellini SKillet
To create this delicious pasta skillet, you only require a few essential ingredients. This incredibly easy recipe is ideal for a quick and hassle-free weeknight dinner. It involves combining cheesy tortellini with a homemade creamy tomato sauce, along with a generous amount of fresh spinach for added flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
What Else Can I Add?
In my opinion, this dish is already quite filling. However, if you desire to include meat, there are several choices available. One option is to brown Italian Sausage in the skillet before adding garlic and blending it into the sauce. Another choice is to place sliced seared chicken breast on top of the skillet. Alternatively, you could even opt for garlic butter shrimp as an addition!
For those who enjoy a spicy flavor, be sure to incorporate a dash or two of crushed red pepper into the tomato sauce to give it a little kick. And for an even more luxurious experience, consider sprinkling some mozzarella on top and baking it in the oven until it melts to perfection! 😮
What to Serve with This Tortellini Skillet
GARLIC BREAD. This delightful recipe is practically screaming for a serving of luscious, crunchy, homemade garlic bread! And if you’re anything like me, you probably have a batch conveniently stored in your freezer, ready to be baked at a moment’s notice. 😉 Additionally, if you desire a touch of extra veggies to accompany this dish, you can utilize any remaining spinach to create a quick side salad. Alternatively, whip up a fuss-free roasted broccoli to complement your meal!
How are the LEftovers?
In my humble opinion, this dish is absolutely amazing! The sauce may become thicker when stored in the refrigerator, but it doesn’t affect the delicious, cheesy goodness. To reheat the leftovers, using the microwave is your best option as it quickly reheats the dish without losing too much moisture. Remember to partially cover the dish to trap the steam and stir it occasionally for even reheating.
How to Make Spinach Tortellini Skillet – Step by Step Photos
Begin by mincing four cloves of garlic. Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it over medium heat for approximately one minute, or until the garlic releases its delightful aroma.
Combine one 28oz. can of petite diced tomatoes, including the juices, with ½ tsp dried basil, ½ tsp dried oregano, and ¼ tsp freshly cracked pepper in the skillet. Mix the ingredients thoroughly and maintain medium heat, occasionally stirring.
After heating the tomatoes, proceed to cut 4 oz. of cream cheese into small chunks and incorporate them into the skillet.
Keep cooking and stirring the sauce on medium heat until the cream cheese completely melts and forms a silky and creamy sauce. Use a whisk if necessary to ensure the cream cheese blends smoothly with the sauce.
While that is happening, heat a large pot of water over high heat until it reaches boiling point. Once the water is boiling, carefully add 19oz. of frozen cheese tortellini. Let the tortellini cook in the boiling water for approximately 3 minutes, or until it begins to float (refer to the package instructions for the recommended cooking time). Finally, drain the tortellini using a colander.
After draining the tortellini, proceed to roughly chop approximately 2 cups of fresh spinach into bite-sized pieces. Next, add the chopped spinach to the sauce in the skillet and stir it in, ensuring the heat wilts the spinach.
Combine the drained tortellini with the sauce in the skillet and stir thoroughly.
Evenly distribute approximately ¼ cup of Grated or shredded Parmesan on the surface, and proceed to mix it together.
Take a final bite of the tortellini and adjust the seasonings according to your preference! Our taste buds were satisfied with the combination of canned tomatoes, cream cheese, and Parmesan, so no extra salt was necessary. Adding a pinch or two of crushed red pepper would also add a delightful kick!
