One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini – Easy Weeknight Comfort Food

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January 4, 2026

This One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini is the kind of dinner you crave after a long day warm, rich, and ready in minutes. Tender cheese-filled pasta simmers in a luscious tomato cream sauce with fresh basil and garlic. It’s comfort food made simple, all in one pan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One pot means easy cleanup.
  • Creamy, tangy sauce everyone loves.
  • Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Uses pantry staples and fresh herbs.
  • Family-friendly and budget-friendly.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Prep: 5 minutes
  • Cook: 20 minutes
  • Total: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat

Optional Swaps:

  • Use spinach tortellini for color and fiber.
  • Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in marinara sauce and cream; stir until smooth.
  4. Add tortellini and cover. Simmer 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan and basil.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables. Pair with sparkling water, iced tea, or a light red wine.

Quick Tips or Variations

  • Add cooked sausage or chicken for protein.
  • Sprinkle mozzarella on top and broil for 2 minutes.
  • Stir in spinach for extra greens.

FAQs

How to cook cheese and tomato tortellini?
Simmer cheese tortellini in a tomato-based sauce for 8–10 minutes until tender and coated.

What to have with tortellini pasta?
Garlic bread, salad, or roasted veggies complement this dish perfectly.

How do I know if my tortellini is cooked?
When it floats to the top and feels tender but firm when bitten, it’s ready.

How to make tortellini interesting?
Add cream, fresh herbs, or protein like sausage or shrimp to elevate flavor.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini is a simple way to bring rich, comforting flavor to your table no fuss, no stress, just one pan and 25 minutes of cozy joy.

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One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini – Easy Weeknight Comfort Food


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  • Author: Laura Jennings
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Rich, creamy one-pot tomato basil tortellini with Parmesan and fresh herbs in just 25 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

1 tbsp olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 (20 oz) cheese tortellini

1/2 cup basil, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

1. Heat oil and sauté garlic.

2. Add marinara and cream, stir.

3. Add tortellini, cover, and simmer 8–10 min.

4. Remove from heat, stir in cheese and basil.

5. Season and serve.

Notes

Use spinach tortellini for a colorful twist. Add cooked sausage for protein.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-Pot
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

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