Spinach Alfredo Tortellini with Garlic Cream

Spinach Alfredo Tortellini with Garlic Cream is the definition of cozy indulgence — plump cheese-filled tortellini bathed in a luxuriously creamy Alfredo sauce infused with garlic and fresh spinach. This dish delivers everything you crave in Italian comfort food: cheesy richness, velvety texture, and a delicate balance of flavors that feel both hearty and elegant.

It’s a restaurant-worthy meal that comes together effortlessly in your own kitchen. The creamy garlic sauce perfectly complements the tender spinach and soft pasta pockets, making every bite irresistibly smooth and satisfying. Whether for a romantic dinner, a family meal, or a comforting weekend treat, this dish promises to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s an effortless way to create something luxurious from simple ingredients. Tortellini gives the dish substance and texture, while the creamy Alfredo sauce transforms it into pure decadence. The addition of spinach brings a beautiful pop of color, lightness, and nutrition, balancing the richness of the cream and cheese.

It’s also incredibly quick — ready in under 30 minutes — making it perfect for weeknights without sacrificing flavor or comfort. One pan, minimal prep, and a whole lot of satisfaction!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Creamy & comforting: The Alfredo sauce is silky, garlicky, and perfectly coats every tortellini.
• Restaurant-quality meal: Impress family or guests with little effort.
• Quick & easy: Ready in about 25 minutes from start to finish.
• Customizable: You can swap proteins, add veggies, or tweak the sauce to your liking.
• Perfect balance: Rich, cheesy sauce with fresh spinach for contrast.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~610 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Tortellini and Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

• 12 oz (340 g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (roughly chopped)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional, adds depth)

For Garnish:

• Extra grated Parmesan
• Fresh parsley or basil leaves

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook tortellini in salted water until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in cheeses until melted and creamy.
5. Add spinach and cooked tortellini, tossing gently to coat.
6. Serve hot with Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions (usually 3–5 minutes for fresh tortellini).
3. Drain and set aside. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Cream Base

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds, just until fragrant (do not brown).
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Create the Alfredo Sauce

1. Once the cream starts to thicken slightly, reduce the heat to low.
2. Add Parmesan and mozzarella, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Tortellini

1. Add chopped spinach to the sauce and stir until it wilts (about 1–2 minutes).
2. Add the cooked tortellini and toss gently until each piece is coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Remove from heat.
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan, parsley, or basil.
3. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

How to Serve

Serve your Spinach Alfredo Tortellini with Garlic Cream hot with:

• Garlic bread or toasted ciabatta.
• A crisp side salad (Caesar or arugula with lemon dressing).
• A chilled glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Freshly cracked black pepper on top for an elegant finish.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook tortellini — it continues cooking in the sauce.
• Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
• Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
• Sauté mushrooms or onions with the garlic for extra flavor.

Variations

• Chicken Alfredo Tortellini: Add grilled or shredded chicken.
• Shrimp Version: Stir in cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Vegetable Delight: Add peas, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms.
• Spinach Artichoke Style: Mix in chopped artichoke hearts for a tangy upgrade.
• Baked Version: Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce (it may separate), but you can freeze for up to 1 month if necessary.
• Reheating: Reheat on low heat in a pan with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for too long.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or saucepan
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Cook it according to the package directions before adding it to the sauce.

Q2: Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit of flour or cream cheese for thickness.

Q3: How do I make it vegetarian?
It already is vegetarian — just make sure your Parmesan is labeled vegetarian-friendly.

Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat gently before serving.

Q5: How can I make it extra garlicky?
Add roasted garlic cloves to the sauce for a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor.

Conclusion

Spinach Alfredo Tortellini with Garlic Cream is the ultimate expression of comfort and elegance in one bowl — creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious. The combination of soft tortellini, vibrant spinach, and velvety Alfredo sauce makes this a timeless favorite that never fails to please.

Whether served on a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent, restaurant-quality meal. It’s rich yet balanced, quick yet refined — a true masterpiece of Italian-inspired home cooking.