Creamy Spinach Alfredo Tortellini

Tender cheese tortellini tossed in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce with fresh spinach for a comforting, restaurant-worthy pasta dish.

I first made this tortellini Alfredo for a small family dinner, and it disappeared in minutes. Everyone loved the way the fresh spinach balanced the richness, making it feel both hearty and wholesome.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 500 g (1 lb) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• Alfredo Sauce: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 cloves garlic minced, 250 ml (1 cup) heavy cream, 120 ml (1/2 cup) whole milk, 100 g (1 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, salt and black pepper to taste
• Vegetables: 120 g (4 cups) fresh baby spinach roughly chopped
• Garnish: Extra grated Parmesan for serving, freshly cracked black pepper, chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Tortellini:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare Alfredo Sauce:

While the tortellini cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and saute for 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.

Simmer Sauce:

Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.

Add Cheese & Spices:

Add the grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Whisk continuously until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Add Spinach:

Add the chopped spinach to the sauce and stir until just wilted, about 1–2 minutes.

Combine & Serve:

Add the drained tortellini to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan, black pepper, and parsley if desired.

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This recipe has become a go-to comfort meal for my family. Gathering around the table with bowls of steaming pasta always brings everyone together.

Required Tools

Large pot, large skillet, whisk, colander, wooden spoon or spatula are essential for effortless preparation.

Allergen Information

Contains milk (cream, butter, Parmesan, cheese tortellini), eggs (in tortellini), wheat (in tortellini). Always verify product labels for allergens and cross-contamination risks.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 490 calories, 28 g total fat, 44 g carbohydrates, 18 g protein.

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Serve this creamy tortellini hot from the skillet for the best flavor. Pair with salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of tortellini works best?

Fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini provide the best texture and flavor, cooking quickly to tender perfection.

→ How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a few minutes longer while whisking to reduce and thicken, ensuring a creamy coating.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Sautéed mushrooms or roasted garlic blend well, adding depth and texture to the spinach Alfredo base.

→ What’s the best way to wilt the spinach?

Add chopped fresh spinach to the hot sauce and stir gently until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes, preserving its bright color.

→ How to enhance the garlicky flavor?

Sauté garlic on medium heat until fragrant but not browned to release sweet, mellow aromas for the sauce.