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Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Pasta

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A quick and easy homemade dinner featuring cheese-filled tortellini in a velvety tomato cream sauce with fresh basil. Perfect for cozy evenings and satisfying meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can (about 800 grams) crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable or chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini. They should float to the surface when done. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup (120 ml) of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant—watch carefully so it doesn’t burn.
  3. Pour in the 28-ounce (800 grams) can of crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Pour in ½ cup (120 ml) of vegetable or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes, stirring now and then.
  5. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream. Add ½ cup chopped fresh basil leaves and mix gently. Let the sauce warm through for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the drained tortellini to the skillet, tossing gently to coat each piece in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  7. Stir in ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or basil if needed. Remove from heat and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

Notes

Do not overcook the tortellini to avoid mushiness. Add fresh basil at the end to preserve its bright flavor. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. For a nutty crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts before serving. Sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy tomato basil tortellini, easy pasta recipe, homemade dinner, comfort food, quick pasta, cheese tortellini, tomato cream sauce

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/creamy-tomato-basil-tortellini-pasta-recipe-easy-homemade-dinner-idea/