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Creamy One-Pot Tomato Basil Tortellini

creamy one-pot tomato basil tortellini - featured image

A quick and easy creamy tomato basil tortellini recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 ounces (250 grams) cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces / 400 grams) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (loosely packed)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes, optional pinch

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and 2 cups of broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning carefully.
  6. Add the cheese tortellini to the simmering sauce and stir gently to prevent sticking.
  7. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 7-9 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tortellini is tender but firm. Add more broth or water if the sauce is too thick.
  8. Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. Cook uncovered for another 2 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
  9. Serve the tortellini in bowls and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Add fresh basil at the end to keep its flavor bright and fresh. Stir gently and often to prevent tortellini from sticking. Adjust liquid as needed for desired sauce consistency. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based Parmesan alternatives. Gluten-free tortellini can be used for gluten-free diets.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, creamy, tomato basil, tortellini, easy dinner, quick pasta, comfort food