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Creamy pasta dishes have a special way of captivating our senses, offering a comforting blend of flavors and textures that can transport us to a cozy Italian trattoria with every bite. Among the myriad of pasta recipes that grace our tables, Creamy Pesto Tortellini Skillet stands out as a delightful combination of rich creaminess and vibrant herbaceous notes. This dish not only delivers an irresistible flavor profile but also presents a quick and easy solution for those busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With its minimal prep time and straightforward cooking process, Creamy Pesto Tortellini Skillet embodies the essence of delicious comfort food that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality.

Creamy Pesto Tortellini Skillet

Discover the delightful world of Creamy Pesto Tortellini Skillet, a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This dish features tender tortellini enveloped in a rich creamy pesto sauce, complemented by fresh cherry tomatoes and baby spinach for added color and nutrition. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip up a comforting Italian feast that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy a satisfying and flavorful experience with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

20 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup baby spinach

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Crushed red pepper flakes for a kick (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Tortellini: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

      Add Cherry Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

        Mix in Spinach: Add the baby spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts, about 2 minutes.

          Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the basil pesto until fully combined. Allow it to simmer for 3-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

            Combine Tortellini and Sauce: Gently fold in the cooked tortellini and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the creamy pesto sauce. Mix until the tortellini is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

              Finish and Serve: Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top and add crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4-6