Creamy Pesto Tortellini

Name: Creamy Pesto Tortellini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup basil pesto; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Prep Plates

I absolutely love making creamy pesto tortellini, especially when I want an elegant yet simple meal that can impress. The luscious, creamy sauce paired with the vibrant flavors of basil pesto creates a dish that's both comforting and satisfying. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds after one taste of this delightful pasta dish!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:25:36.682Z

When I first stumbled upon creamy pesto tortellini, I was looking for a quick dinner solution. I tried various methods, and one key tip I discovered was to toss the cooked tortellini directly into the sauce for that extra layer of flavor. The creamy texture binds beautifully with the pasta, making each bite a delightful experience!

Additionally, using fresh basil for the pesto adds a vibrant taste that dried herbs simply can't match. I've experimented with different cheeses in the creamy sauce, but finding the perfect balance with Parmesan creates that ultimate richness. This dish has become a staple in our household!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that envelops each tortellini
Vibrant basil flavor from the fresh pesto
Quick and easy for weeknight dinners or special occasions

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using high-quality ingredients makes all the difference in this creamy pesto tortellini. Fresh basil pesto, preferably from a local market or made at home, offers a rich, aromatic flavor that jarred versions can’t match. When picking your pesto, look for vibrant greens, which indicate freshness. The freshness of the ingredients truly elevates the dish, bringing a lively flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

The cheese tortellini also plays a crucial role in the overall outcome. Choose tortellini stuffed with high-quality cheese for a richer flavor. If you can find fresh tortellini, it cooks faster and has a delightful texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce. If you’re in a pinch, store-bought dried tortellini is a suitable alternative; just be mindful of cooking times as they may vary.

Enhancing the Creamy Sauce

To elevate your creamy sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic. Allow it to reduce for a minute to marry the flavors, then proceed with the heavy cream. This addition not only adds depth but also balances the richness of the cream. If you prefer a less rich sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter option.

When combining the pesto with the cream, stir gently but thoroughly until the sauce becomes glossy. This visual cue ensures that the cheese is fully melted and incorporates into the sauce, providing that luxurious texture. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a tablespoon of pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a delightful presentation, serve the creamy pesto tortellini in individual shallow bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a few leaves of basil. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top just before serving adds a sophisticated touch. Pair this dish with a side salad or garlic bread. The freshness of a green salad balances the creaminess very well, providing a complete meal.

If you want to add some protein to this dish, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp makes a fantastic addition. Simply cook the protein separately and toss it in with the tortellini just before serving. Additionally, consider mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Both ingredients infuse the already vibrant dish with color and taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious creamy pesto tortellini:

Ingredients

12 oz cheese tortellini
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

These fresh ingredients come together to create a creamy, comforting dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your creamy pesto tortellini:

Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Stir in the basil pesto and Parmesan cheese into the cream. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently toss to coat.

Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your creamy pesto tortellini, a dish that is sure to please!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding some cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken for added flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're short on time, the tortellini can be prepared in advance. Once cooked, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy your dish, prepare the sauce and toss it with the chilled tortellini, allowing a slight increase in cooking time to warm everything through. This is a great way to save time during busy weeknights.

You can also make the creamy pesto sauce ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, but avoid adding the tortellini until just before serving. Reheat the sauce gently over low heat while whisking continuously to bring it back to a creamy consistency. You might need to add a splash of cream or pasta water to revive its texture.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover creamy pesto tortellini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you're making a larger batch and need to store it longer, consider freezing the sauce separately from the tortellini. The creamy sauce can freeze well for up to 2 months, but the tortellini is best used within 1 month after freezing to maintain its texture.

When reheating, it's best to use a stovetop method. Place the tortellini and sauce together in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until heated through, adding a splash of cream or broth as needed to loosen the sauce. Microwaving is also an option, but be sure to cover the dish and check every 30 seconds to avoid overheating.

Common Troubleshooting

If your sauce isn’t as creamy as expected, it may be due to not allowing the cheese to melt completely. Make sure to stir continuously over medium heat until fully melted and incorporated. If the sauce is too thick after adding the tortellini or ingredients, simply add small amounts of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency without diluting the flavor.

Another common issue is curdling if the cream is added to a pot that's too hot. Always allow the garlic to cool for a minute before adding the cream to avoid high heat. If curdling does occur, whisking vigorously can sometimes help to smooth out the sauce. Remember that the sauce should remain on a gentle simmer, not boiling, for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto saves time and still provides great flavor.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative if preferred, though the creaminess may vary.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers work wonderfully when sautéed before adding the tortellini.