If you’re searching for a comforting, crave-worthy pasta dish that feels as good as it tastes, Marry Me Tortellini might just be the one. This recipe is a twist on the beloved “Marry Me Chicken,” swapping in tender cheese-filled tortellini and a velvety sauce packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and one pan, you can make a dinner that feels special any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for someone you love or treating yourself, this dish brings warmth, richness, and plenty of compliments.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something about the combination of creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan that makes each bite comforting and exciting at the same time. It’s incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep and just one skillet needed after boiling the pasta. You can keep it vegetarian or toss in some added protein if you like. The flavor is bold, the texture is luxurious, and it comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Tortellini (9 oz, refrigerated): Cheese tortellini adds creaminess inside and out. Choose a high-quality refrigerated version for the best texture and taste.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): This is what gives the sauce its silky richness. It brings everything together into a cohesive, luscious base.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (½ cup, chopped): These provide a slightly tangy and savory bite that cuts through the richness of the cream. They’re also great for adding texture and depth.
Fresh Spinach (2 cups): This wilts beautifully into the sauce, bringing in color, nutrition, and a fresh contrast to the creamy elements.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Stirred in at the end, Parmesan gives a savory kick that enhances every other flavor in the dish.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Just a touch of garlic creates an aromatic base that sets the tone for a flavorful sauce.
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): A dependable blend of herbs like oregano and basil helps tie together the tomato and cream elements.
Salt and Pepper: These classic seasonings bring the final balance. Taste before serving and adjust as needed.
Fresh Parsley: Used as a garnish, parsley adds a bright finish and a fresh herbal aroma that completes the dish.
How to Make Marry Me Tortellini
You’ll begin by boiling your tortellini until they’re just tender. While that’s happening, sauté garlic in a bit of olive oil until it smells amazing. Cream goes in next and simmers gently to thicken. Then come the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, which infuse the sauce with flavor. Fresh spinach is added and quickly wilts, and finally, the cooked tortellini are folded in. A generous handful of grated Parmesan ties it all together. Serve with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra cheese for a beautiful finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tortellini and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, warm a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown. - Simmer the Cream
Lower the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken a bit. - Stir in Tomatoes and Seasoning
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Mix well and let the sauce cook for another two minutes so the flavors blend together. - Add the Spinach
Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts completely. This usually takes just one to two minutes and gives the dish a beautiful pop of green. - Add the Tortellini
Return the drained tortellini to the skillet and gently toss everything together so the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. - Mix in the Parmesan
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted into the sauce. This will help the sauce thicken even more and add a bold, savory flavor. - Serve with Garnish
Spoon the tortellini into bowls or onto plates. Top with a bit more Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
Helpful Tips
For the best texture, avoid overcooking the tortellini since they’ll continue to soften slightly in the sauce. Choose good-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for a richer taste. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water or milk can help loosen it up. Always add cheese after lowering the heat to prevent clumping. Store any leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently with a bit of liquid to bring the sauce back to life.
Details
Flavor: Creamy and garlicky with sweet and tangy notes from sun-dried tomatoes
Texture: Soft tortellini in a smooth, rich sauce with bits of chewy tomato and tender spinach
Occasion: Great for romantic dinners, cozy weeknight meals, or when you want to impress without a lot of effort
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Notes (Optional Variations or Substitutions)
To add protein, stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon before serving. For a vegetarian option with more bite, try roasted mushrooms or sautéed tofu. Want a dairy-free version? Use full-fat coconut milk in place of cream and swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese. You can also experiment with different leafy greens like kale or chard if spinach isn’t available. Adjust spice levels by adding a pinch of crushed red pepper if you like a little heat.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Fat | 34 g |
| Protein | 17 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Marry Me Tortellini ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
What type of tortellini works best for Marry Me Tortellini?
Cheese tortellini is a great choice because it pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Other options like spinach and ricotta or mushroom can also work well.
Can Marry Me Tortellini be made without heavy cream?
Absolutely. You can use whole milk with a bit of flour for thickness, or try coconut milk for a non-dairy version. Just know that the flavor will be slightly different.
What proteins pair well with Marry Me Tortellini?
Grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or shrimp all complement the flavors in this dish. If you prefer a plant-based version, roasted vegetables or chickpeas are great alternatives.
Marry Me Tortellini | Creamy Pasta Worth Falling For
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Legend has it this creamy, cheesy tortellini is so good it might earn you a marriage proposal. Whether you’re in it for love or flavor, this cozy one-pan meal is guaranteed to impress with rich cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and savory Parmesan.
Ingredients
9 oz refrigerated tortellini (cheese or your choice)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and reduce heat. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Continue simmering for another 2 minutes.
5. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
6. Return cooked tortellini to the skillet. Stir gently to coat with sauce.
7. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm. Garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Notes
You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon for extra protein.
Swap spinach for kale or arugula for variety.
Use full-fat coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Reheat leftovers with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 17g
Conclusion
Marry Me Tortellini brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels comforting and a little bit indulgent. It’s a dish that’s easy to make but full of flavor, perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. The creamy sauce, tender pasta, and bold tomato notes come together in just the right balance. Whether you’re planning a romantic meal or just want something satisfying at the end of the day, this pasta will leave you full and happy. Give it a try and see why so many people are falling in love with it.