When I first made creamy tortellini with spinach tomatoes, I instantly fell in love with its comfort-food vibe. This recipe checks all the boxes for me. It’s quick, simple, and loaded with fresh, hearty ingredients. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and Parmesan, coats the tender tortellini just perfectly.
Add in sweet bursts of tomato and nutrient-packed spinach, and you’ve got yourself a winning dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Honestly, it’s hard not to go back for seconds (or thirds!). Whether I’m whipping it up for a casual family dinner or impressing guests, it’s always a hit. Plus, it’s one of those meals that leave you feeling satisfied without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you’re as obsessed with comforting pasta as I am, this recipe will become your new go-to, especially on those busy yet cozy nights. 🍝🌿🍅

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This creamy tortellini dish has everything you want in a quick yet impressive meal. Here’s why it’s so special!
Quick and Easy to Prepare
From chopping to simmering, this dish comes together in just 25 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you need something tasty, fast. Cleanup is just as quick, making this a stress-free meal!
Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether it’s a low-key dinner or a fancy gathering, this dish fits the vibe. Serves it in bowls for family dinners or on platters when hosting guests for a more formal feel. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, no matter the setting.
Packed with Flavor
Creamy Parmesan sauce, fresh spinach, savory garlic, and sweet tomatoes all come together in a way that feels balanced yet indulgent. It’s restaurant-quality flavor at home! Each ingredient enhances the next, creating a rich and satisfying taste.
Versatile and Customizable
You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences. Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, or play around with different herbs to make it your own. The possibilities are endless, so you can enjoy a new twist every time.
Comfort Food You Can Feel Good About
It’s cheesy and creamy but also includes fresh veggies and herbs, so you get that perfect mix of indulgence and lightness. Every bite is both nourishing and satisfying, making it the best of both worlds.
Cooking Time
This tortellini recipe doesn’t take long to make:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
You’ll need these key ingredients to create this creamy, delicious pasta dish:
- Three-cheese tortellini
- Butter
- Garlic
- Flour
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Diced tomatoes
- Fresh spinach
- Basil
- Oregano
- Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes
Variations
Make this tortellini recipe your own with these variations and tools.
Ingredient Swaps
- Substitute fresh diced tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
- Use kale or arugula instead of spinach.
- For dairy-free, try coconut cream and vegan Parmesan.
- Add shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed shrimp for extra protein.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot: To boil the tortellini to al dente perfection.
- Deep Skillet: Ideal for cooking the creamy sauce and mixing everything together.
- Whisk: Ensures a smooth sauce without lumps.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the sauce and tossing the pasta.
How to Make Creamy Tortellini with Spinach and Tomatoes?
This step-by-step process is straightforward and fun. Here’s how you can whip it up effortlessly.
Step 1: Boil the Tortellini
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and toss with a splash of olive oil to keep the pasta from sticking together. This step also gives the tortellini a light, flavorful coat.
Step 2: Create the Base for the Sauce
Melt butter in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant (about a minute). Then, whisk in the flour and cook for another minute to make a roux. This step ensures the sauce gets its creamy thick texture. 🧈🧄
Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce
While whisking, slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream. Keep stirring until the mixture starts to simmer and thicken. The key here is to whisk continuously to avoid any lumps. 🥛
Step 4: Add Fresh Flavors
Stir in the diced tomatoes, chopped spinach, fresh basil, and oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste. The fresh elements bring vibrant colors and bold flavors to the sauce, making it even more irresistible. 🌿🍅
Step 5: Toss Tortellini into the Sauce
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss it gently to coat it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water or milk to thin it out to your liking. 🍝
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve the tortellini warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Trust me, this final touch takes it to the next level!

Tips for Making the Recipe
Set yourself up for a smooth cooking experience with these simple yet essential tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach, basil, and Parmesan will make a significant difference in flavor. Avoid using dried herbs when fresh ones are readily available.
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Cook the tortellini just until it’s al dente, so it holds its shape and texture even after being tossed in the sauce.
- Adjust for Spice: If you have spice lovers at the table, red pepper flakes can add a slight kick while balancing the dish’s creaminess.
- Thin the Sauce as Needed: The sauce thickens quickly, so a splash of reserved pasta water or milk will help you achieve the perfect consistency.
How to Serve Creamy Tortellini with Spinach and Tomatoes?
This dish is not only delicious but also beautiful when plated. Here’s how you can serve it for the best experience.
- Plate it in shallow bowls and sprinkle with extra Parmesan for a classic feel.
- Add fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of elegance.
- Pair the dish with crusty garlic bread or a refreshing Caesar salad to complete the meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s what you can expect from a serving of this creamy tortellini dish:
- Calories: 580
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fat: 26g
Make Ahead and Storage
This tortellini dish is versatile and easy to prep in advance.
Make Ahead
Prepare the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove and toss in freshly cooked tortellini for best results.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.
Creamy tortellini with spinach and tomatoes is a meal that’s indulgent yet wholesome. Packed with flavor, it’s perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or even entertaining guests. Once you taste it, there’s no doubt it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen, as it has in mine! 🍝✨

Creamy Tortellini with Spinach Tomatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- Three-cheese tortellini
- Butter
- Garlic
- Flour
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Diced tomatoes
- Fresh spinach
- Basil
- Oregano
- Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and toss with a splash of olive oil to keep the pasta from sticking together. This step also gives the tortellini a light, flavorful coat.
- Melt butter in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant (about a minute). Then, whisk in the flour and cook for another minute to make a roux. This step ensures the sauce gets its creamy thick texture. 🧈🧄
- While whisking, slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream. Keep stirring until the mixture starts to simmer and thicken. The key here is to whisk continuously to avoid any lumps. 🥛
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chopped spinach, fresh basil, and oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste. The fresh elements bring vibrant colors and bold flavors to the sauce, making it even more irresistible. 🌿🍅
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss it gently to coat it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water or milk to thin it out to your liking. 🍝
- Serve the tortellini warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Trust me, this final touch takes it to the next level!
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach, basil, and Parmesan will make a significant difference in flavor. Avoid using dried herbs when fresh ones are readily available.
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Cook the tortellini just until it’s al dente, so it holds its shape and texture even after being tossed in the sauce.
- Adjust for Spice: If you have spice lovers at the table, red pepper flakes can add a slight kick while balancing the dish’s creaminess.
- Thin the Sauce as Needed: The sauce thickens quickly, so a splash of reserved pasta water or milk will help you achieve the perfect consistency.