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Creamy Tortellini Alfredo with Fresh Spinach

creamy tortellini alfredo with fresh spinach - featured image

A quick and easy homemade recipe featuring tender cheese-filled tortellini in a rich, buttery Alfredo sauce with fresh spinach for a vibrant, nutritious twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
  • 4 cups packed (about 120 grams) fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
  • 4 tablespoons (about 57 grams) unsalted butter
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (about 100 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup (120 ml) of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, without browning.
  3. Add 4 cups fresh spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes, until bright green and tender but not mushy.
  4. Slowly pour in 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream to the skillet with spinach and garlic, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
  5. Gradually stir in 1 cup (about 100 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time to loosen.
  6. Add the drained tortellini to the skillet and gently toss to coat every piece in the Alfredo sauce and spinach. Heat for 1-2 minutes to warm through and let flavors mingle. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor. Keep heat low when adding cream and cheese to prevent sauce separation. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Avoid overcooking tortellini and spinach to maintain texture. Stir gently to keep sauce smooth.

Nutrition

Keywords: tortellini, Alfredo sauce, fresh spinach, creamy pasta, easy dinner, comfort food, quick recipe