If you’re craving a cozy, restaurant-quality meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, this Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini is exactly what you need. With pillowy cheese tortellini tossed in a rich tomato cream sauce and fresh basil, it’s the perfect mix of simple and indulgent. This dish is family-friendly, fast enough for weeknights, and elegant enough to serve for guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Ready in 30 minutes – quick, easy, and satisfying.
✔️ Uses pantry staples – canned tomatoes, cream, pasta.
✔️ Family-approved – kids love cheesy tortellini.
✔️ Flexible – add veggies or protein to make it a full meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Tortellini: Fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for flavor.
- Crushed Tomatoes: The base of the sauce. Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best taste.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess (half-and-half works for lighter).
- Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for savory depth.
- Italian Seasoning & Red Pepper Flakes: Add a subtle kick and herb flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Bright and aromatic, a must for this dish.
- Olive Oil, Salt & Pepper: The foundation of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Make the Tomato Basil Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Creamy Finish
Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning. - Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add the cooked tortellini and chopped basil. Toss gently until coated. - Serve & Enjoy
Serve warm, garnished with more Parmesan and basil.
Expert Tips
✨ For deeper flavor, stir in a spoonful of sun-dried tomato paste.
✨ Add fresh spinach in the last few minutes for extra greens.
✨ Want protein? Add grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp.
✨ If reheating leftovers, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
- Vegetarian Boost: Stir in zucchini, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette 🥖
- A fresh green salad 🥗
- Roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, or carrots)
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Sauce can be frozen up to 2 months (freeze without pasta).
- Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.
Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked tortellini and chopped basil. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Serve warm, garnished with more Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
Add spinach, grilled chicken, or sausage for a full meal.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of cream.
Add a splash of cream when reheating to refresh the sauce.
From your stove to our hearts
share your delicious take!FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Just adjust cooking time based on the package instructions.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook tortellini right before serving.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Use coconut milk instead of cream and vegan Parmesan.
Printable Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan, grated
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt & pepper
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook tortellini per package directions.
- Heat oil in skillet, sauté garlic 1 min. Stir in tomatoes, seasoning, red pepper, salt, pepper. Simmer 10 min.
- Add cream & Parmesan, stir until smooth.
- Toss in tortellini & basil.
- Serve with extra Parmesan & basil.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini is the kind of meal that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes, you get a rich, flavorful pasta dish that tastes like something from your favorite Italian restaurant. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, hosting friends, or just craving something cozy, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
So grab some fresh basil, a bag of tortellini, and your favorite wooden spoon — dinner is about to be delicious! 🍅✨