This Marry Me Tortellini is a cozy and creamy dish, perfect for dinner. It features tasty tortellini, a rich sauce, and yummy spices that will make your taste buds dance!
Honestly, this dish is so good it might just win you a proposal! Whether it’s for a special date night or a weeknight treat, it’s easy to prepare and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Refrigerated cheese tortellini is a quick choice. You can also use frozen tortellini for an even longer shelf-life. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini available in stores.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: I suggest using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor. If you can’t find them, fresh tomatoes sautéed for a few minutes can work too. Just add a bit of extra olive oil.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich.
Chicken Broth: If you’re looking for vegetarian options, vegetable broth works well. Homemade broth can also be a fantastic choice if you have time!
Parmesan Cheese: If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can add a nice touch too! Nutritional yeast is great for a dairy-free alternative that packs a cheesy flavor.
How Can You Make the Cream Sauce Perfectly Creamy?
Getting that creamy texture in your sauce is key to the Marry Me Tortellini! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start by sautéing garlic in oil before adding liquids. It enhances the flavor.
- Bringing the cream and broth to a simmer before adding the cheese helps create a stable sauce.
- Gradually mix in the Parmesan cheese after simmering so it melts smoothly. Stir constantly!
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a little reserved pasta water. This makes it creamy without being too heavy.
Following these steps will help you whip up the perfect creamy sauce for your tortellini! Enjoy your meal!
Marry Me Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (9-12 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or sage leaves, roughly chopped or whole for garnish
Time Needed:
This Marry Me Tortellini takes about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and cooking the ingredients, plus another 15 minutes for simmering and combining everything to create a delicious, creamy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta, but make sure to save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the tortellini aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and set the heat to medium. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for about 1 minute until you can smell the garlic, but be careful not to let it brown!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, toss the chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet and cook them for another 1-2 minutes. This will bring out their flavors and infuse the oil.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, until it starts to thicken a bit—this is when the magic begins!
5. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir it well so that the cheese melts and adds creaminess to the sauce. If you find the sauce too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Combine with Tortellini:
Add the cooked tortellini back to the skillet, and gently toss everything together so the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. It should look irresistible!
7. Season and Garnish:
Take a moment to taste your creation! Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Then, plate the dish and garnish with fresh basil or sage leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for that finishing touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this dish warm right away while it’s still creamy and delicious. It’s a meal that’s not just comforting but might just make someone fall in love with your cooking!
Enjoy this luscious, creamy tortellini dish that’s flavorful and comforting—a perfect “Marry Me” meal!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! Just cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions, and you should be good to go. It might take a minute or two longer to cook, so keep an eye on it!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure you’re using vegetarian cheese. Everything else remains the same to maintain that delicious creamy sauce!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the tortellini ahead of time. Store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, warm the sauce on low heat while adding a splash of cream or pasta water, and then add the tortellini to heat through.
What Can I Serve with Marry Me Tortellini?
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with some roasted vegetables for a delicious veggie side!
