Marry Me Tortellini

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s equal parts comforting and elegant, Marry Me Tortellini is your go-to. This recipe combines tender cheese tortellini with a luscious, creamy tomato sauce infused with Italian herbs and ground turkey, making it a hearty yet sophisticated meal. The addition of fresh spinach and a touch of Parmesan cheese elevates the dish, creating layers of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this one-pot wonder is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

The Upside of Marry Me Tortellini

Marry Me Tortellini is a versatile dish that offers several benefits beyond just its delicious taste. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. The use of cheese tortellini means you’re working with a pasta that cooks quickly while delivering a rich, cheesy bite in every forkful. Ground turkey provides a lean protein option that keeps the dish light but filling. The creamy tomato sauce, enriched with fresh spinach, offers a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce more greens into your meal without sacrificing flavor. Lastly, Marry Me Tortellini is perfect for meal prepping or leftovers, making weeknight dinners stress-free.

Your Shopping Guide

• Cheese Tortellini (8 oz): Look for fresh or frozen varieties in the refrigerated section. Fresh tortellini will give you the best texture.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity, robust flavor to your dish.
• Onion (1 medium): Choose a yellow or white onion for a balanced sweetness.
• Garlic (3 cloves): Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic base.
• Ground Turkey (1 pound): Opt for lean ground turkey to keep the dish light but satisfying.
• Dried Italian Herbs (1 teaspoon): A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary works beautifully.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz): Use good-quality canned tomatoes for a rich sauce foundation.
• Spinach (1 cup, chopped): Fresh spinach adds color, nutrients, and a mild flavor.
• Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Use full-fat cream for the creamiest sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Freshly grated Parmesan will melt smoothly and add a sharp, nutty flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: For garnish and a fresh herbal finish.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Preferably non-stick or stainless steel for even cooking.
• Medium Pot: To cook the tortellini if not cooking directly in the skillet.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring and sautéing the ingredients gently.
• Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing onions, mincing garlic, and chopping spinach.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To keep the recipe precise and balanced.

Marry Me Tortellini: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Turkey

Add 1 pound of ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes with their juices. Simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Then stir in 1 cup chopped spinach until wilted.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream, letting it warm through. Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and stir to create a creamy, cheesy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 6: Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated beautifully. Let everything warm together for 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

How to Make It Lighter

• Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative for a lighter, dairy-free option.
• Use turkey breast mince instead of regular ground turkey to reduce fat.
• Increase the amount of spinach or add other greens like kale for extra nutrients and fiber.
• Reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor with fewer calories.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

• This Marry Me Tortellini recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a one-pan meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture.
• If you want to elevate this dish further, a splash of white wine added after browning the turkey adds a subtle depth.
• Fresh basil is key for garnish — it cuts through the richness of the sauce with its bright, herbal notes.
• Feel free to swap ground turkey with chicken or beef based on your preference.
• For a vegetarian twist, omit the turkey and add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for umami.

Best Ways to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. This helps keep the tortellini tender and the sauce creamy.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Marry Me Tortellini FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly and can be cooked directly from frozen, just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time. Just be sure to drain it well before adding to the sauce.

Is ground turkey the best meat choice for this dish?

Ground turkey is a great lean option that pairs well with the creamy sauce. However, you can substitute with ground chicken, beef, or even Italian sausage depending on your taste preferences.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic, or add a splash of hot sauce to the finished sauce.

Can I prepare Marry Me Tortellini ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and cook the tortellini separately, then combine and heat when ready to serve. This makes it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy nights.

Try These Next

• Caprese Pasta Bake – A fresh, cheesy baked pasta dish with tomatoes and basil.
• Instant Pot Creamy Tortellini Soup – A comforting soup packed with tortellini and veggies.
• Garlic Butter Pasta – Simple, flavorful pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce.

Time to Try It

Now that you have the recipe and all the tips for making the perfect Marry Me Tortellini, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. This vibrant, creamy pasta dish will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation—simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for company. Don’t forget to garnish generously with fresh basil for that final touch of elegance. Serve it with a crisp salad or crusty bread, and you have a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. Enjoy every bite of this luscious, cheesy comfort food!

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