Name: Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 cup half-and-half; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; ¼ cup basil pesto (Click for recipe); ¼ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish); 9 ounces cooked cheese tortellini; 2 cups steamed broccoli florets; Fresh grated black pepper

Bowl of creamy pesto tortellini with spinach and broccoli topped with cheese.

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We’ve all been there, haven’t we? It’s one of those hectic weeknights, and the kids are already asking, “What’s for dinner?” Trust me, I get it! That’s why I absolutely love whipping up my Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost). It’s a lifesaver, coming together in just 20 minutes! Picture this: warm, cheesy tortellini coated in a luscious, creamy pesto sauce, with an unexpected burst of nutrition from fresh spinach. You can serve it up in no time, and the best part? Kids hardly notice they’re getting an extra serving of greens. The richness of the half-and-half combined with the aromatic basil pesto creates a dish that feels indulgent, yet it’s actually pretty wholesome. It’s the perfect recipe for busy parents looking for quick, delicious meals that the whole family will enjoy. So, let’s embrace this flavorful adventure together!

Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost)

Gathering all the ingredients for my Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost) is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sauce

1 cup half-and-half
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
¼ cup basil pesto (Click for recipe)
¼ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)

For the Tortellini and Broccoli

9 ounces cooked cheese tortellini
2 cups steamed broccoli florets
Fresh grated black pepper to taste

This combination of ingredients is not only simple but packs a delightful punch of flavor and nutrition. Trust me, the creamy sauce and cheesy tortellini make this dish irresistible, especially when you sneak in that spinach! Just make sure to have everything ready to go since this recipe comes together in no time!

How to Prepare Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost)

Making my Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost) is as fun as it is simple! Follow these steps for a delicious meal that your family will love:

First thing’s first—bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in your 9 ounces of cooked cheese tortellini. Cook according to package directions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until they’re nice and tender. Don’t forget to save a cup of pasta water for later!
While the tortellini is cooking, grab your large skillet and set it over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and let it melt. Once melted, pour in 1 cup of half-and-half and ¼ cup of basil pesto. Stir it together, letting it heat up just enough to thicken slightly—about 2-3 minutes.
Next, sprinkle in ¼ cup of fresh grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until it’s melted and smoothly blended into the sauce. This is where the magic happens!
Once your tortellini is done, drain them, but don’t forget about that reserved pasta water! Now, toss the drained tortellini into the skillet with the creamy sauce, along with 2 cups of steamed broccoli florets. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess!
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and season it all with some fresh grated black pepper to taste. Serve immediately and don’t be shy with sprinkling extra Parmesan on top for that perfect finish!

And there you have it—a creamy, dreamy dish in just 20 minutes! Enjoy the smiles at the dinner table when they realize how deliciously good those greens can be!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost)

This Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost) is bound to become a favorite at your dinner table, and here’s why:

Quick to prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights!
Vegetarian-friendly: A delicious option that even the meat lovers will rave about!
Packed with nutrients: With added spinach and broccoli, it’s a wholesome meal that sneaks in those veggies effortlessly.
Comforting flavor: Rich, creamy, and oh-so-delicious, this dish feels indulgent without the guilt!

Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll be making it again and again!

Bowl of creamy pesto tortellini topped with broccoli and cheese.

Tips for Success with Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost)

To ensure your Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost) turns out delicious every time, here are some of my favorite tips. First, always use fresh ingredients! Fresh basil pesto packs way more flavor than store-bought options. If you have the time, give homemade pesto a try—it’s truly worth it!

Next, don’t rush the sauce. Allow the half-and-half and butter to simmer together gently before adding the cheese. This extra minute makes a world of difference in creating that creamy texture we all love!

Also, if you find yourself with an overwhelmingly thick sauce, just add a little of that reserved pasta water we saved earlier. It’s a simple trick that helps achieve the perfect silky consistency without watering down the flavor.

Finally, feel free to get creative! Toss in other vegetables you have on hand, like peppers or cherry tomatoes. My daughter loves when I sneak in extra spinach, and it’s a fun way to make each meal different!

Nutritional Information for Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost)

When it comes to family meals, I always like to keep an eye on nutritional content without sacrificing flavor! My Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost) not only wins points for taste but also offers a balanced profile. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving:

Calories: 400
Fat: 22g
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 600mg
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 3g
Vitamin A: 500 IU
Vitamin C: 30 mg
Calcium: 300 mg
Iron: 2 mg

Keep in mind that these values may vary based on specific ingredients you use. But with creamy goodness packed in and that spinach boost, you can feel good about serving this dish any day of the week!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost)

Got leftovers from your Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost)? No worries, they can be just as delicious the next day! To store, simply transfer any uneaten portion into an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it up—this helps prevent condensation from making it soggy.

For reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat. Just add a splash of water or a bit of olive oil, and stir occasionally to keep everything creamy. If you prefer the microwave, go for short bursts to prevent overcooking, stirring in between. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for an added burst of flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost)

Let’s dive into some common questions about my Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost)! You might be wondering if you can swap out any ingredients. Absolutely! If you don’t have half-and-half on hand, heavy cream or even milk will work just fine. Just keep in mind that it might change the richness slightly.

For those looking to customize this recipe, feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini! It’s such a great way to sneak in even more nutrients, especially since we’re already amping up the greens with that spinach boost.

And if you’re catering to gluten-free diets, gluten-free tortellini is your best friend! They make for a delicious substitute that keeps all the comforting flavors intact. I’ve tried several brands, and honestly, you can’t go wrong with them. Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost)

Looking to round out your Creamy Pesto Tortellini (Spinach Boost) meal? Here are some delicious ideas to make it even more satisfying! A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly, adding a refreshing crunch. If you’re feeling fancy, roasted asparagus or garlic bread is a fantastic option for a comforting touch while soaking up that creamy sauce.

And don’t forget about a glass of crisp white wine or a fruity sparkling water to wash it down! Each of these sides enhances the flavors and makes for a delightful dining experience that the whole family will enjoy!