Creamy Pesto Tortellini

Name: Creamy Pesto Tortellini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup pesto; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely love making Creamy Pesto Tortellini for a quick yet delectable dinner. The creamy texture combined with the bright flavors of pesto makes it irresistible. Anytime I have a busy evening, this dish comes to my rescue, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time. It's perfect for those nights when I'm craving something hearty without the fuss, and it always leaves everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:32:36.475Z

When I first tried Creamy Pesto Tortellini at a friend's dinner party, I knew I'd found a new favorite. The combination of silky cream and fresh pesto was unlike anything I had ever tasted. I decided to recreate it at home, experimenting with different types of pasta and sauces.

One tip I discovered was to add a bit of the pasta cooking water to the sauce; it helps bind everything together beautifully. This little trick elevates the dish, making it rich and flavorful without being too heavy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy richness with a burst of herbal flavor from the pesto
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile – you can add vegetables or protein to customize

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of cheese tortellini is crucial in this recipe, as it adds a delightful burst of flavor and a satisfying texture. Fresh or frozen tortellini works well, but I recommend fresh for its tender bite and rich cheese filling. If you prefer a lighter option, you can select whole wheat tortellini, which provides more fiber without sacrificing flavor. Remember to check the cooking time on the package, as it may slightly differ depending on freshness and brand.

Pesto serves as the star of this dish, bringing freshness and a herby aroma. Store-bought pesto is perfectly fine for convenience, but making your own elevates the dish significantly. When preparing homemade pesto, opt for high-quality pine nuts, fresh basil, and extra virgin olive oil; this ensures a flavor-packed sauce. Also, consider adding a touch of garlic or lemon juice to brighten the sauce even more as you blend it.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

Creating the creamy pesto sauce requires a gentle heat to ensure the cream doesn’t curdle. Maintain a medium heat as you combine the heavy cream and pesto, stirring consistently until the sauce is warm and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Visual cues such as a slight simmer and the sauce becoming glossy indicate it’s ready for the tortellini. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Adding grated Parmesan cheese at the end not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the creaminess of the sauce. To ensure it melts smoothly, make sure the sauce is warm but not boiling, as aggressive heat can cause the cheese to clump. Using freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated will deliver a richer taste and a silkier texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Creamy Pesto Tortellini:

Main Ingredients

12 oz cheese tortellini
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup pesto
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Here's how to create your Creamy Pesto Tortellini:

Cook the Tortellini

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and pesto. Stir until well blended, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is heated through.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired creaminess. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Enjoy your dish while it's nice and warm!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add cherry tomatoes or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition!

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Pesto Tortellini is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the tortellini without overpowering it. For added texture, consider serving with crusty garlic bread for a satisfying meal that balances flavors and provides a great way to soak up any leftover sauce.

For an extra layer of nutrition, feel free to toss in cooked vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes directly into the pasta at the end. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s health profile. If you're looking to incorporate protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp make excellent additions, turning this dish into a full meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're preparing ahead of time, cook the tortellini and store it separately from the sauce. This way, when you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over medium heat, then toss in the tortellini until warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the creamy texture to break. You can also store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a little cream or reserved pasta water to maintain creaminess.

For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce and tortellini separately. The creamy pesto sauce can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. This method helps preserve the quality and flavor, so you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal even on your busiest nights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just follow the package instructions for cooking time.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ What protein can I add to this recipe?

Chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas work beautifully with the creamy pesto sauce.