Easy One-Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini

This simple and tasty pasta dish combines soft cheese tortellini with sweet cherry tomatoes and a smooth, creamy sauce. It’s quick to make, perfect for a cozy dinner, and easy for seniors to prepare with clear steps. Enjoy a comforting meal in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 10 oz cheese tortellini (store-bought, found in the pasta aisle)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or cooked chicken slices

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Colander
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini: Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil. Add tortellini and cook as per package instructions (usually 5–7 minutes). Drain in a colander and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in chopped garlic and cook for 30 seconds until it smells fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
4. Make it Creamy: Lower the heat. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream. Stir gently for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Stir to coat the pasta in the sauce. Add salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to taste.
6. Serve: Spoon onto plates. Add fresh basil or chicken slices if desired. Serve warm.

Tips for Easy Cooking

• Use pre-chopped garlic to save time.
• Cook tortellini until just soft to keep it from getting mushy.
• Warm the cream slowly to avoid lumps.
• Fresh cherry tomatoes give the best flavor, but canned diced tomatoes (drained) work too.
• For a lighter dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a slice of soft garlic bread or a simple side salad with lettuce and cucumber.
• Pair with a glass of cold water with a lemon slice or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 2–3 Servings)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Calcium: 20% Daily Value

Note: Nutrition varies based on tortellini and cream type.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This creamy tortellini with tomatoes is a quick, delicious meal that’s easy to make. The sweet tomatoes and rich sauce make every bite satisfying. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special treat, and you can add veggies like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.