If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate yet takes minimal effort, look no further than the One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini Recipe. This delightful meal combines creamy, savory sauce with cheesy tortellini, sun-dried tomatoes bursting with flavor, and just the right touch of spice and herbs. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to share with friends or someone special—making it a true kitchen winner you’ll want to make time and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A pan filled with three layers of creamy sauce and cooked tortellini pasta. The bottom layer is a thick tomato cream sauce with orange and red hues, mixed with green spinach leaves. The second layer consists of golden yellow tortellini placed evenly over the sauce. The top layer is sprinkled with light white grated cheese and black pepper flakes. A silver spoon is scooping some pasta and sauce from the pan. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with fresh green spinach in one corner and a small white bowl with grated cheese and red spices near the pan. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The charm of this One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of each ingredient. Each element plays an important role: olive oil provides the perfect sauté base, garlic and sun-dried tomatoes infuse incredible flavor, and the creamy sauce brings everything together with rich, comforting notes.

1 tbsp olive oil: The foundation for sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, adding a luscious start to the dish.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a fragrant punch that elevates every bite.
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and chopped: These little gems add chewy bursts of tangy sweetness and vibrant color.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates a silky, luscious sauce that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
½ cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds depth and a subtle savory note to balance the richness.
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For that gentle kick of heat, perfectly customizable to your taste.
½ tsp dried oregano: A fragrant herb that enhances the Italian-inspired flavor profile.
¼ tsp salt: Essential for bringing out all the wonderful flavors in the sauce.
¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle sharpness and complexity.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a salty, nutty finish that melts perfectly into the creamy sauce.
1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini: The star of the dish, tender little pockets of cheesy goodness.
2 cups fresh spinach (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of green, wilting beautifully in the sauce.

How to Make One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until everything becomes fragrant and the sun-dried tomatoes soften just enough to start releasing their rich, tangy flavors. This step lays down the flavor base and you’ll already be feeling the deliciousness coming through.

Step 2: Add Cream and Broth with Seasonings

Next, pour in the heavy cream and your choice of chicken or vegetable broth right into the skillet. Stir in the red pepper flakes if you want some heat, sprinkle the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where your sauce begins to come alive, melding all those tasty ingredients into a smooth, dreamy base for your tortellini.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini in the Sauce

Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini straight into the skillet, making sure they’re nestled evenly in the creamy sauce. Cook uncovered for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini are tender and the sauce starts thickening just a little. This one-pan cooking trick means your pasta soaks up all that flavor without extra pots or pans to clean.

Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and Spinach

Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly into the sauce. If you’re including fresh spinach, toss it in now and let it wilt gently in the warmth of the pan. This final flourish adds a lovely color and freshness that balances the creamy richness.

How to Serve One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini Recipe

A black pan filled with creamy orange sauce mixed with green spinach leaves and small chunks of red tomatoes, topped with around thirty yellow tortellini pasta pieces scattered across the surface, sprinkled with grated cheese and black pepper; a silver spoon scoops some sauce and pasta from the right side of the pan, all placed on a white marbled surface with a beige cloth and fresh green spinach leaves nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the dish even more, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley right before serving. These herbs bring a pop of fresh, vibrant color and a bright note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A little extra Parmesan on top never hurts either for that umami kick.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines wonderfully on its own but also pairs nicely with a crisp side salad for some refreshing crunch or a slice of crusty garlic bread to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. Roasted vegetables make a great accompaniment if you want to add more texture and nutrients.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more festive touch, serve the One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini Recipe in individual shallow bowls, topped with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of cracked black pepper. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top for an unexpected nutty crunch. It’s a cozy, elegant presentation that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken more as it cools, so you might want to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to bring it back to that silky texture.

Freezing

Freezing this dish can be a bit tricky because the cream sauce might separate upon thawing. If you want to freeze it, do so before adding the spinach and cheese, then thaw and finish the dish fresh when you’re ready. Otherwise, it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often and adding a little broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if you can, as slow reheating preserves the creamy texture and prevents the tortellini from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini also works well but might need a minute or two extra cooking time. Just add it directly to the sauce and cook until tender.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure the tortellini filling is vegetarian. The recipe is naturally suited to vegetarians who enjoy cheese-filled pasta.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits are fantastic additions that make it more filling and add a welcome texture contrast.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version, but be aware the sauce won’t be as rich and may require a bit more simmering to thicken.

How spicy is the red pepper flakes amount?

The ½ teaspoon is a gentle heat that enhances the flavor without overpowering. You can always adjust it to your taste, or leave it out completely for a mild dish.

Final Thoughts

The One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini Recipe is truly a special find for anyone craving a creamy, comforting meal that comes together effortlessly but still tastes extraordinary. Its balanced flavors, simple ingredients, and minimal cleanup make it a perfect go-to recipe for busy nights or casual dinner parties. I hope you enjoy making this delicious dish as much as I do—it might just become your new favorite too!