Creamy Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato & Spinach

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There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when you combine creamy goodness, tender tortellini, and vibrant sweet potatoes with fresh spinach. The moment you take your first bite of this creamy skillet tortellini with sweet potato and spinach, flavors will dance on your palate, leaving you craving more. Picture the warm aroma wafting through your kitchen as the ingredients simmer together, creating a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also brings comfort to the soul.

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This delightful meal is perfect for cozy nights when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a chilly evening, and my family gathered around the table with big smiles. Their reactions were priceless; my daughter declared it “restaurant-worthy,” and my husband went back for seconds! Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This creamy skillet tortellini is easy to prepare and packed with flavor that everyone loves
  • It looks stunning on your dinner table with its vibrant colors
  • The versatility of this dish means it fits any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations
  • Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder—fewer dishes mean more time to relax!

I still chuckle when I think about how we all knew we’d found something special in this dish. The way everyone gathered around the table like it was Thanksgiving dinner made my heart swell.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Fresh Tortellini: Use cheese-filled or spinach-flavored tortellini for extra depth in taste.

  • Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm sweet potatoes that are rich in color for the best flavor.

  • Fresh Spinach: Opt for vibrant green leaves; they add nutrition and a lovely pop of color.

  • Heavy Cream: This ingredient transforms your dish into a creamy delight that’s hard to resist.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an aromatic foundation that elevates all other flavors.

  • Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for added flavor without overwhelming saltiness.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds a salty richness that complements the creaminess perfectly.

  • Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil enhances flavors while helping sauté vegetables beautifully.

  • Paprika: Smoked paprika gives a subtle warmth and complexity; trust me on this one!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato and Spinach

How to Make Creamy Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato and Spinach

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes into small cubes; they should be about half an inch thick for even cooking. Mince fresh garlic cloves until fragrant, creating an inviting aroma in your kitchen.

Sauté Sweet Potatoes and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in the sweet potatoes along with minced garlic. Sauté until the sweet potatoes soften slightly—about 5 minutes—while stirring regularly.

Add Broth and Simmer: Pour vegetable broth into the skillet, ensuring it covers most of the sweet potatoes. Bring it to a gentle boil before reducing heat; let it simmer until tender—approximately 10 minutes—while enjoying those delicious scents.

Cream It Up!: Stir in heavy cream and smoked paprika into the mix; watch as everything transforms into a luscious sauce! Allow it to bubble gently for another 3-5 minutes, adding richness and flavor depth.

Toss in Tortellini and Spinach: Gently fold in fresh tortellini along with handfuls of spinach. Cook according to package instructions; once cooked through, everything should meld together beautifully within just 3-5 minutes.

Add Parmesan Cheese and Serve!: Finally, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over top while giving everything one last gentle stir. Plate up your creamy skillet tortellini with sweet potato and spinach while marveling at its beauty before diving in!

With every spoonful of this creamy delight bursting with colorful ingredients, you will be left feeling satisfied yet eager for more!

You Must Know

  • This creamy skillet tortellini with sweet potato and spinach is not only delicious but also a perfect quick meal
  • The rich flavors and textures blend beautifully, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings
  • The vibrant colors will brighten up any table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the sweet potatoes until tender, then add the spinach and tortellini. Finish with the creamy sauce to combine flavors perfectly without overcooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in other veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. Try different cheeses or spices to give your dish a unique twist based on your preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce’s consistency.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For creamy skillet tortellini, always cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness
  • Adding cheese gradually helps achieve that perfect creamy texture without clumping
  • Use fresh spinach for better flavor and nutrition

Sometimes, I whip this dish up after a long day, only to hear my family rave about it as if I were a Michelin-star chef! Their compliments always make cooking worthwhile.

FAQ

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well; adjust cooking time according to package instructions.

What can I substitute for spinach?

Kale or Swiss chard are excellent alternatives if you’re not a spinach fan.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Use low-fat cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato and Spinach


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Creamy Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato and Spinach is a delightful one-pan meal that brings together tender tortellini, vibrant sweet potatoes, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this dish offers a balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone craving more. With minimal cleanup and quick preparation, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 oz fresh cheese tortellini
  • 1 medium sweet potato (about 8 oz), peeled and diced
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Peel and dice the sweet potato into half-inch cubes. Mince the garlic.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sweet potatoes and garlic; sauté until slightly softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer until sweet potatoes are tender (approximately 10 minutes).
  4. Stir in heavy cream and smoked paprika; let bubble for another 3-5 minutes.
  5. Fold in tortellini and spinach; cook until tortellini is tender (3-5 minutes).
  6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, stir gently, serve warm.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

 

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