I made this Creamy One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini recipe one evening when I craved something comforting but didn’t want a mountain of dishes to clean afterward. The name isn’t just catchy—it really delivers that warm, swoon-worthy flavor that might just make someone fall in love with you at the dinner table. The richness of the sauce wraps around every bite of cheese-filled tortellini, with little hints of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh baby spinach sneaking in just enough greens to make you feel a little better about going back for seconds.
What surprised me most is how easy it is. It comes together in just one skillet, no draining, no oven, and no special techniques. Just throw it all in, stir, and watch it transform into this luscious, creamy, flavorful masterpiece. And that sauce… oh, that sauce. It clings to each tortellini with a velvety smoothness that makes every bite irresistible.
If you’re looking to impress someone—a date, your family, or maybe just yourself after a long day—this recipe is it. It gives fancy restaurant vibes without the restaurant stress or prices. And while it’s amazing on its own, I love pairing it with something like crusty garlic bread or a chilled glass of white wine. This is one of those dinners you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini
This dish brings together flavor, ease, and elegance. The tortellini stays perfectly al dente as it cooks right in the sauce, absorbing all those delicious flavors. You get creamy, cheesy, savory bites every time. It’s also an incredible one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to relax.
It’s hearty enough for dinner yet impressive enough for guests. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan gives it that special something. And with the addition of fresh greens, it balances richness and freshness beautifully.
If you’re a fan of recipes like Creamy Beef and Shells, Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce, or even Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce, this one hits that same comfort-food sweet spot with a twist of elegance.
How to Make the Creamy One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Start with a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté finely chopped garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then toss in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and give them a quick stir.
Step 2: Add broth and cream
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer so the flavors can meld together.
Step 3: Add the tortellini
Add refrigerated cheese tortellini straight into the pan. No need to boil separately! Stir them in and let them cook for about 7–9 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender and coated in the sauce.
Step 4: Stir in the cheese and greens
Lower the heat and stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add in fresh baby spinach and let it wilt into the sauce.
Step 5: Season and serve
Finish with salt, pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick. Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
If you want to switch things up or tailor the recipe to your pantry, here are some ideas:
- Tortellini Options: You can use spinach and ricotta stuffed tortellini or even meat-filled versions for a heartier dish.
- Protein Add-ins: Stir in cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or crispy pancetta for added richness.
- Vegetarian Twist: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add mushrooms for extra umami.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap the cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative.
- Greens Swap: Kale, arugula, or even chopped zucchini can be used in place of spinach.
This dish is incredibly flexible and always turns out comforting and full of flavor, no matter how you adjust it.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Creamy One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini is indulgent enough to stand alone, but if you want to create a full dining experience, here are some serving ideas. I love plating it with a crisp side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A warm, crusty garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
For drinks, you can’t go wrong with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay. The acidity of the wine pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemon water or a lightly sweetened iced tea works wonderfully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you end up with leftovers, lucky you! This tortellini reheats beautifully. Just store any extra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place it in a saucepan with a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce. Warm it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s hot throughout. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Avoid freezing this dish as the creamy sauce can separate and the tortellini texture may change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Let it simmer a few minutes longer and ensure it’s tender before serving.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare it earlier in the day and gently reheat it before serving. Just be sure to add a splash of cream to bring back the sauciness.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not really. It has a gentle warmth from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust that to your preference or leave it out entirely.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes are great alternatives and will still give you a sweet, rich burst of flavor.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Just make sure you use a larger skillet or divide it into two pans so everything cooks evenly.
Related Recipe You’ll Like
If you enjoyed this Creamy One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini, then you absolutely must try a few of my other indulgent pasta favorites. For a rich and beefy twist, the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta delivers the same cozy feel in a meat-forward format.
Love tortellini? The Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is a baked version that’s bubbly, meaty, and irresistibly cheesy. And for something with a smoky depth, don’t miss the One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta — just as easy and deeply satisfying.
These recipes all bring comfort to your kitchen and are perfect for busy weeknights or slow weekends. Browse through MiaPlates.com for even more one-pan wonders and pasta creations.
Save and Share This Recipe for Later
This Creamy One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini is a dish you’ll want to make again and again, so don’t forget to save it! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s always easy to find when the craving hits.
Also, share the love by posting it on your Facebook or tagging your foodie friends. Whether it’s dinner inspiration or a new go-to comfort meal, this tortellini deserves a place in your recipe box—and your feed!
Creamy One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini
This Creamy One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini is the perfect quick and elegant dinner recipe. Filled with cheese-stuffed tortellini, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a rich parmesan cream sauce, it cooks all in one skillet with minimal effort and maximum flavor. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something easy yet indulgent, and its dreamy creamy texture makes it an instant favorite for both kids and adults. It's a comforting meal that combines gourmet flavors with homestyle ease.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (about 18 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add in the tortellini. Stir and cook for 7–9 minutes, or until tender.
- Reduce heat and stir in parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Serve hot with extra parmesan on top, if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein.
- To make it vegetarian, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Stir gently to avoid breaking the tortellini.
- Best served immediately for the creamiest texture.
