Marry Me Tortellini
Rich cream meets tangy marinara and Parmesan to transform simple tortellini into a comforting dish perfect for a cozy dinner or a family meal.
Ingredients
For the sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream For richness; half-and-half will work but the sauce will be lighter.
- 1 cup marinara sauce Use a flavorful jarred sauce or homemade for better depth.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated melts more smoothly than pre-grated.
- Salt Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste.
For the pasta
- 12 oz tortellini Fresh or frozen; cheese-stuffed recommended.
For garnish
- to taste fresh basil leaves Torn or chiffonade.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the tortellini and cook until al dente, following package timing. Reserve about 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain.
Cooking
- Heat a large skillet over medium. Pour in the heavy cream and the marinara. Stir to combine and warm until the mixture is steaming and evenly pink — about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss gently so each piece is coated in the sauce.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy, about 1–2 minutes.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water (or a splash of milk) and stir until you reach the desired consistency.
- Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- Remove from heat and garnish with torn fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while the sauce is warm and glossy.
Notes
Storage tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop or in the microwave with added liquid.