Indulgent Delight: Creamed Spinach Tortellini
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, then look no further than Creamed Spinach Tortellini. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at a dinner party. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of stuffed tortellini, cooked & drained (use your favorite filling)
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1/2 cup of half & half
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of roasted garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1 cup of parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces of room temperature cream cheese
- 1/2 cup of smoked gouda cheese
- 16 ounces of frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- a pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Begin by cooking your tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden brown color.
- Slowly pour in the half & half, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture until it thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the salt, roasted garlic powder, black pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Add the parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and smoked gouda cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Fold in the thawed and drained spinach, stirring until it is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing gently to coat it in the creamy spinach sauce.
- Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the top for a hint of heat, if desired.
- Serve the Creamed Spinach Tortellini hot, garnished with additional grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some cooked bacon or pancetta to the dish before serving.
- Feel free to use different types of cheese in the sauce, such as mozzarella or fontina, for a unique twist on the recipe.
- If you prefer a thinner sauce, simply add a bit more half & half until you reach your desired consistency.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this dish, you can make a few simple substitutions:
- Replace the stuffed tortellini with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a low-carb option.
- Use almond flour or coconut flour in place of the all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce.
- Instead of half & half, use heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk to reduce the carb content.
- Omit the nutmeg and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Creamed Spinach Tortellini is a decadent dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its creamy sauce, cheesy tortellini, and flavorful spinach, it’s a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving some comfort food, this recipe is a winner every time. So grab your ingredients and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Yes, you can definitely use fresh spinach if you prefer. Just be sure to wash and chop it before adding it to the skillet.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stove and cook the tortellini according to the instructions.
- Can I freeze leftovers? While you can freeze leftovers, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh if possible.
- What other vegetables can I add to this dish? Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes, to add even more flavor and texture to the dish.
- Is this dish suitable for vegetarians? Yes, this Creamed Spinach Tortellini is vegetarian-friendly, as it does not contain any meat products.
- Can I make this dish dairy-free? While the creamy cheese sauce is what gives this dish its richness, you can try using dairy-free alternatives such as vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
