Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Tortellini Skillet

$- 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen) - 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade) The star of this dish is the cheese-filled tortellini. You can use fresh or frozen. Both work well. Fresh tortellini cooks faster and has a soft texture. Frozen tortellini is quick and easy. Spinach adds color and nutrition. I like to chop it finely for better mixing. Ricotta cheese brings a creamy texture to the dish. It blends well with mozzarella and Parmesan. Mozzarella melts nicely, creating that gooey, cheesy layer on top. Parmesan adds a salty kick and depth of flavor. Marinara sauce ties everything together with its rich, tangy taste. - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish) Garlic is essential for flavor. It adds a savory note to the dish. Red pepper flakes give a hint of heat. You can skip them if you prefer a milder taste. Olive oil helps cook the garlic and spinach. It also adds richness. Salt and black pepper are basic but important. They enhance the flavors of all the ingredients. Fresh basil is the perfect garnish. It adds a fresh aroma and color to your skillet. - Additional cheese types - Alternative greens - Substitutions for marinara sauce Feel free to mix up the cheese. Cheddar or feta can add different flavors. You can also swap spinach for kale or arugula. They both work well and change the taste a bit. If you want to switch the marinara sauce, try Alfredo or a pesto sauce. Each will give your dish a unique twist. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. First, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. 2. Next, add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute. The garlic will smell great! 3. Now, toss in 2 cups of chopped spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down. Stir it often to keep it from burning. 1. In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of ricotta cheese, half of 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan. 2. Add in 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, if you want some heat. 3. Stir this mixture until it's well combined. 4. Gently fold the spinach and garlic mixture into the cheese mix. Make sure it's all mixed together nicely. 1. Boil a pot of salted water. Add 12 ounces of cheese-filled tortellini and cook until al dente, usually about 3-5 minutes. 2. Drain the tortellini and set it aside. 3. In the same skillet with the spinach and cheese mixture, add the cooked tortellini and 1 cup of marinara sauce. Stir well until everything is coated. 1. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the mixture. 2. Cover the skillet and let it cook on low heat for 2-3 minutes. This helps melt the cheese. 3. Once it’s melted and bubbly, take it off the heat. 4. Garnish with 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil for a burst of flavor. To avoid overcooking tortellini, follow the package instructions closely. Fresh tortellini cooks in just 3-5 minutes. Set a timer to help you remember. Drain them quickly and toss them in olive oil to keep them from sticking. For melting cheese, low heat is best. After adding cheese to your dish, cover it. This helps trap heat and moisture. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it is nice and bubbly. Add herbs or spices to boost flavor. Fresh basil adds a bright touch. You can also try oregano or thyme for something new. Red pepper flakes give a nice kick if you like heat. When it comes to marinara sauce, you have choices. A garlic-infused sauce adds depth. A spicy marinara can elevate the dish. Choose a sauce you love for the best taste. Serve your dish straight from the skillet for a cozy vibe. This makes it easy to share. For a fancier look, scoop portions onto plates. To impress your guests, add creative garnishes. A drizzle of olive oil makes it shine. A sprinkle of fresh basil adds color and flavor. These small touches elevate your meal. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen for a brighter flavor and better texture in your dish. Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix in different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor twist in the stuffing. Perfect Tortellini Cooking: Make sure to cook the tortellini al dente; it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce. Garnish for Flavor: Always finish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the flavor and presentation of the dish. {{image_2}} You can change this dish in fun ways. Start with the cheese. Swap mozzarella for gouda or provolone. Each cheese brings a new taste. Ricotta can be replaced with cottage cheese for a lighter option. If you want to switch up the pasta, try using penne or shells instead of tortellini. These shapes hold the sauce well. They also work great with the cheese mix. If you're gluten-free, look for gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer tasty options. You can also use gluten-free pasta shapes like rice noodles or quinoa pasta. For a vegetarian version, this dish is already a great fit. Just skip any meat toppings. To make it vegan, use plant-based cheeses and a vegan tortellini. There are many great options now that taste good. Want to add protein? Cooked chicken or sausage are great choices. Cut them into small pieces and mix them in before the cheese melts. For some crunch, add breadcrumbs or chopped nuts on top. Toast them in a pan first to boost their flavor. This adds nice texture and makes the dish more exciting. To keep your Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Tortellini fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing. Store in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, the stove is best. Place the tortellini in a skillet over low heat. Stir gently until warmed. If you use a microwave, cover the bowl to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Avoid overheating, as this can make the pasta mushy. To freeze your dish, let it cool completely. Pack it in freezer-safe containers or bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Tortellini can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove or in the oven. This way, you keep the texture and flavor just right. This dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook. You can serve it for four people. The total time is 40 minutes. Yes, you can use frozen tortellini! Just cook it longer than fresh tortellini. Follow the package instructions for cooking times. This way, you ensure it is done right. You can serve a simple side salad with this dish. Garlic bread also pairs well. Consider a light vegetable dish for balance. These options enhance the meal without overpowering it. Yes, you can prep this dish ahead. Cook the tortellini and mix the cheese. Store in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, heat it up. Just add the sauce and cheese before serving. This dish combines cheese-filled tortellini, fresh spinach, and rich marinara sauce for a tasty meal. You learned how to prepare it step-by-step, from sautéing garlic to layering flavors. Don't forget your cooking tips and variations for fun twists. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make swaps, you’ll impress every time. Enjoy making and sharing this cheesy delight!$

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Tortellini Skillet

A delicious skillet dish featuring cheese-filled tortellini, fresh spinach, and a blend of cheeses, all topped with marinara sauce.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons olive oil
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
0.25 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 cup marinara sauce

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted, stirring occasionally.
In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until well combined.
Gently fold in the cooked spinach and garlic mixture into the cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions (usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini). Drain and set aside.
In the same skillet with the spinach and cheese mixture, add the cooked tortellini along with the marinara sauce. Stir everything together until the tortellini is well-coated with the sauce and cheese mixture.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top and cover the skillet. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes over low heat to melt the cheese.
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil.

Notes

Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic look, or scoop portions onto individual plates. Drizzle with extra olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil before serving.

Keyword cheesy, skillet, spinach, tortellini