Creamy Pesto Tortellini

Name: Creamy Pesto Tortellini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces tortellini (fresh or frozen); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely adore this Creamy Pesto Tortellini recipe because it combines rich flavors with a delightful texture in a single dish. The creaminess clings perfectly to the tortellini, and the bright flavors of the pesto create a deliciously satisfying meal. I find that it's the perfect weeknight dinner that feels special yet is quick to whip up in under 30 minutes. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want this recipe in your regular rotation!

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:05:35.667Z

When I first made Creamy Pesto Tortellini, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. I remember tossing the tortellini into boiling water while simultaneously preparing the creamy sauce, and that perfect timing made all the difference. The secret is to use fresh basil pesto, which elevates the entire dish with vibrant flavors.

Another tip I learned was to reserve a little pasta water when draining the tortellini. Adding a splash of the starchy water to the sauce ensures everything combines beautifully and achieves that luscious consistency that coats each piece of tortellini. You'll impress yourself with how gourmet this dish feels!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Silky, creamy sauce that perfectly envelops each tortellini
Bursting with fresh basil flavor and vibrant color
Quick and simple for dinner or an elegant lunch

Perfectly Cooking Tortellini

Cooking tortellini correctly is crucial for achieving the right texture in your Creamy Pesto Tortellini. Make sure to bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil before adding the tortellini. This ensures they cook evenly and helps prevent them from sticking together. Depending on whether you’re using fresh or frozen tortellini, the cooking time will vary, typically around 3-5 minutes for fresh and 7-10 minutes for frozen. Keep an eye on them and taste for doneness; they should be tender yet firm, or 'al dente'.

Another handy tip is to ensure you reserve some pasta water after draining. This starchy water is a secret ingredient that can help adjust the sauce's consistency without diluting flavor. When you toss the tortellini with the sauce, the added water helps create a silky coating that clings to the tortellini perfectly.

Making the Creamy Sauce

The beauty of the sauce in this recipe lies in the combination of heavy cream and basil pesto. The cream adds richness and a smooth texture, while the pesto infuses the dish with a fresh, vibrant flavor. When simmering the cream and pesto together, keep the heat at medium to prevent boiling, which can lead to separating the cream. Stir it occasionally to ensure that the sauce remains even and creamy.

If you're looking to make the dish lighter or dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. This change will still yield a creamy consistency but might bring a different flavor profile. Additionally, if you don’t have pesto on hand, consider blending fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts of your choice to create a quick homemade version.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

When it comes to serving, this Creamy Pesto Tortellini pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. If you want to elevate the dish further, consider adding sautéed vegetables such as zucchini or cherry tomatoes, which can introduce additional texture and flavor. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or toasted pine nuts on top before serving adds a nice crunch and complements the creaminess.

For storage, this dish can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of reserved pasta water to revive the creamy sauce. Freezing is also an option; however, I recommend freezing the tortellini and sauce separately for the best texture upon reheating. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort later on.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make a delicious Creamy Pesto Tortellini:

Ingredients

12 ounces tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready to ensure a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Pesto Tortellini:

Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and basil pesto. Stir well and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is warmed through.

Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Add the drained tortellini directly to the skillet and toss gently to coat them with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Pesto Tortellini!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or grilled chicken to the dish. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.

Key Techniques for Success

One technique that elevates the Creamy Pesto Tortellini is the method of tossing the tortellini in the sauce off the heat. Doing this keeps the sauce creamy and prevents it from becoming overly thick or clumpy. If your sauce seems to separate or break, just lower the heat and whisk in more pasta water gradually until it becomes smooth again.

It's important to not overcook the sauce after adding cheese. Stirring in the Parmesan until just melted will maintain the creaminess without causing the sauce to curdle. If you notice the sauce becoming too dense, as mentioned earlier, gradually incorporate pasta water while gently tossing the tortellini, achieving the desired consistency.

Flavor Variations

While the classic combination of basil pesto and heavy cream is divine, feel free to experiment with different flavor profiles. For instance, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist. You can also substitute the basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto, which could introduce a different yet harmonious taste.

For a spicier kick, consider mixing in some red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper into the sauce right before serving. This playful addition enhances the dish's depth and pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture, providing an exciting contrast to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can use vegan cream and pesto, and omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a little added cream or water.

→ Can I freeze Creamy Pesto Tortellini?

While you can freeze it, the cream may separate upon thawing. It's best enjoyed fresh.