Marry Me Tortellini – Creamy, Cheesy, Irresistible Dinner

If you’ve ever tasted a dish so good it deserved a proposal, then Marry Me Tortellini will sweep you off your feet. Inspired by the viral Marry Me Chicken, this version takes the same beloved creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and pairs it with pillowy cheese tortellini for a cozy, flavor-packed pasta dish.

This is a true weeknight wonder — rich and velvety, bursting with bold garlic, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs. It’s fast, easy, and fancy enough for date night or a dinner party, but simple enough for any night of the week.

Whether you’re cooking to impress or just treating yourself, this dish speaks the language of love in every bite.

Ingredients Overview

Each element in this dish brings big flavor and comforting texture. Let’s take a closer look:

Cheese Tortellini

Fresh or refrigerated tortellini are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. The cheese filling adds richness and complements the tangy sun-dried tomatoes.

Substitute: Use spinach and ricotta tortellini or frozen tortellini (just adjust cook time slightly).

Sun-Dried Tomatoes

These bring intense, sweet-tart flavor that defines this dish. Oil-packed tomatoes add the most richness.

Tip: Drain lightly and chop finely so they blend into the sauce.

Garlic

A must for depth and savory flavor. Use fresh minced garlic for best results.

Heavy Cream

Creates the velvety base for the sauce. It thickens naturally when simmered and coats the tortellini beautifully.

Lighten it up: Use half-and-half, but note the sauce will be thinner.

Chicken Broth

Adds savory backbone to the sauce and prevents it from becoming too heavy.

Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, giving it nutty, salty depth.

Don’t skip this — it ties everything together.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

Just a pinch for heat — optional, but recommended.

Italian Seasoning

A simple herb blend (oregano, basil, thyme) that brings balance and aromatics.

Fresh Basil (Optional Garnish)

Adds brightness and color at the end. A handful of chopped basil really elevates the finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook tortellini according to package instructions (usually 3–4 minutes if fresh).

• Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Lightly toss the cooked pasta with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Sauté Aromatics

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

• Add 3–4 cloves of minced garlic and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional).

• Sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

• Stir in ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (drained if oil-packed).

• Cook for 1–2 minutes to infuse the oil and flavor the pan.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

• Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup chicken broth.

• Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

• Add ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.

• Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened and smooth.

Optional: Add spinach or cooked chicken at this stage for variation.

5. Combine & Serve

• Add the drained tortellini directly into the sauce.

• Toss gently to coat every piece.

• Simmer together for 2–3 minutes to let flavors meld.

• Top with extra Parmesan and chopped fresh basil, if using.

Serve warm, with crusty bread to mop up every drop of sauce.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Cooking Tips

• Use freshly grated cheese — it melts better and has no anti-caking agents.

• Don’t overcook tortellini — it should be tender but not falling apart.

• Let the sauce simmer gently to avoid breaking or curdling.

Variations

• Protein-packed: Add grilled or shredded rotisserie chicken.

• Vegetarian boost: Stir in baby spinach or sautéed mushrooms.

• Spicy kick: Increase red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil.

Substitutions

• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

• Low-carb: Swap tortellini for sautéed zucchini noodles or roasted cauliflower.

• Gluten-free: Use GF tortellini, widely available at specialty stores.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is ideal for:

• Date night dinners – romantic and indulgent

• Family meals – kid-friendly and cozy

• Dinner parties – elegant yet simple

• Comfort food nights – pure satisfaction

Pair it with:

• Garlic bread or focaccia

• A crisp Caesar or arugula salad

• A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon

It also reheats well, making it perfect for next-day lunches.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This pasta dish leans into richness, thanks to the cream, cheese, and tortellini. It’s a great source of:

• Protein (from cheese and optional chicken)

• Calcium (from cream and Parmesan)

• Vitamin C and fiber (from sun-dried tomatoes and optional spinach)

To lighten the dish:

• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream

• Cut back slightly on Parmesan

• Add extra vegetables or lean protein

One serving (based on 4 servings) provides approximately:

• Calories: ~550

• Protein: ~20–25g

• Carbohydrates: ~40–45g

• Fat: ~30g

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A1: Yes, cook according to package directions. Add directly to the sauce once drained and hot.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely. Cook and store the pasta and sauce separately, then reheat together in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream.

Q3: Is this dish vegetarian?
A3: It can be — just use vegetable broth and cheese tortellini. Check labels to confirm Parmesan is rennet-free if desired.

Q4: What meat goes well with this?
A4: Grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp are all great add-ins that complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q6: Can I freeze Marry Me Tortellini?
A6: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the sauce can be frozen separately. Tortellini may become mushy after thawing.

Q7: What other cheeses can I use?
A7: Fontina, asiago, or mozzarella can be added to the sauce, but Parmesan gives the most flavor and best melt.

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