Tortellini with cherry tomatoes in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce—this 30-minute pasta recipe is rich, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, this dish will be your new favorite go-to meal!
With cheese-filled tortellini, a rich, velvety garlic-infused cream sauce, and the bright, slightly tangy taste of burst cherry tomatoes, this dish delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent looking for a quick family dinner, or just someone craving a satisfying bowl of pasta, this recipe is perfect for you!
Let’s dive into this mouthwatering one-pan pasta recipe that will become a staple in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with simple steps.
✔️ Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh produce.
✔️ One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
✔️ Comforting & Creamy: A rich, cheesy sauce coats every bite.
✔️ Customizable: Add proteins or extra veggies for variety.
Tortellini with Cherry Tomatoes : Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients:
To create this creamy tortellini dish, you’ll need:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh cheese tortellini (or frozen)
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup baby spinach or arugula for extra greens
- ½ lb cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for protein
- 1 tbsp butter for a richer flavor
Dietary Substitutions:
- Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free tortellini.
- Vegan: Use plant-based tortellini and non-dairy cream substitutes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping all the ingredients so the cooking process is smooth and efficient:
✔️ Wash and Slice: Rinse the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.
✔️ Mince Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor, so chop it finely.
✔️ Grate Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged versions.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions. Fresh tortellini takes about 3-5 minutes, while frozen may take 8-10 minutes.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking tortellini—it should be slightly firm as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to burst.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir well to combine.
- Add ½ cup grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything Together
- Add the cooked tortellini into the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss gently, making sure every piece is coated with the rich, cheesy sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Sprinkle with fresh basil and extra Parmesan for an added flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
🍷 Wine Pairing: A glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay enhances the creamy flavors.
🥗 Side Dish: A simple arugula salad or garlic bread completes the meal.
🥖 Crusty Bread: Great for soaking up extra sauce.
Tortellini with Cherry Tomatoes : Storage & Reheating Tips
📦 Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheating:
- Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the sauce’s consistency.
- Avoid microwaving, as it may make the sauce separate.
Tortellini with Cherry Tomatoes : Customization Ideas
Adding Protein
- Chicken: Grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken makes it heartier.
- Shrimp: Sauté shrimp in butter and garlic before adding to the pasta.
- Sausage: Italian sausage adds a spicy, savory twist.
Making It Healthier
- Use whole wheat tortellini for extra fiber.
- Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
- Add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Spicy Version
🔥 Craving more heat? Increase red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce!
Why Tortellini with Cherry Tomatoes Works So Well
This dish is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and tangy flavors. The burst cherry tomatoes add a fresh contrast to the richness of the sauce, while the tortellini brings in a soft, pillowy texture that makes every bite irresistible.
It’s restaurant-quality pasta, but home-cooked in just 30 minutes—what’s not to love?
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a fast, easy, and indulgent pasta dish, this 30-minute creamy tortellini with cherry tomatoes is the perfect choice. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to impress guests.
So, why not treat yourself to this creamy, cheesy goodness tonight? One bite, and you’ll be hooked! 🍝✨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh?
Yes! Dried tortellini works but takes longer to cook (about 10-12 minutes).
2. What’s the best cheese for a creamy sauce?
Parmesan is ideal, but Pecorino Romano or Asiago work well too.
3. How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat tortellini, lighter cream options, and add extra veggies.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the tortellini and make the sauce separately, then combine when serving.
5. What other vegetables can I add?
Try mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth.
