Marry Me Tortellini – Creamy, Cheesy, Irresistible Pasta

If you’ve fallen in love with Marry Me Chicken, just wait until you try Marry Me Tortellini. This pasta twist on the viral dish is everything you want in a comforting meal: creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and packed with tender cheese tortellini in a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce.

Why is it called “Marry Me”? Legend has it, this dish is so good, it could spark a proposal. Whether or not that’s true, there’s no denying that this tortellini version is fast, flavor-packed, and feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Made in one skillet, this is a dreamy 30-minute dinner perfect for date nights, cozy meals, or impressing someone with minimal effort. Each bite is rich with Parmesan, flecks of herbs, and sweet-savory sun-dried tomatoes that elevate this dish into something unforgettable.

Ingredients Overview

This Marry Me Tortellini recipe calls for bold, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in a decadent cream sauce.

Cheese Tortellini

Refrigerated or frozen cheese-filled tortellini is ideal for soaking up the sauce while staying tender and satisfying.

Tip: Cook tortellini just until al dente — they’ll finish in the sauce and absorb extra flavor.

Garlic

Fresh minced garlic gives the base a rich, aromatic depth. It’s sautéed in butter or oil to bloom the flavor without overwhelming the sauce.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes

These bring sweet, tangy, umami-rich intensity that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Use: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for best flavor and texture. Drain and chop finely.

Heavy Cream

The heart of the luscious sauce. Heavy cream thickens as it simmers and clings to every tortellini pocket.

Lighter option: Use half-and-half or a mix of cream and whole milk — the sauce will be slightly thinner but still indulgent.

Chicken Broth

Adds savory depth and helps stretch the sauce without more cream. Low-sodium broth gives better control over seasoning.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding saltiness and richness. It also thickens the sauce naturally.

Pro tip: Avoid pre-shredded or shelf-stable Parmesan — it won’t melt smoothly.

Italian Seasoning & Red Pepper Flakes

Herby Italian seasoning ties everything together, while a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds subtle warmth.

Butter or Olive Oil

Used to sauté garlic and start the base of the sauce. Butter adds richness; olive oil brings fruitiness.

Optional add-ins:

• Baby spinach (stir in at the end)

• Grilled chicken (for protein)

• Crumbled bacon or pancetta

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini

Boil tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using frozen tortellini, do not overcook — it will finish in the sauce.

2. Start the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp butter or olive oil over medium heat.

Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).

3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Stir in ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another minute to soften and release flavor.

4. Pour in Liquids

Add:

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

• Salt and pepper to taste

Simmer for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until sauce begins to thicken.

5. Stir in Cheese

Reduce heat and stir in ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan. Continue stirring until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.

Taste and adjust seasoning — more cheese or salt if needed.

6. Combine with Tortellini

Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently fold into the sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Optional: Add a handful of baby spinach now and stir until wilted.

7. Serve

Garnish with:

• Extra Parmesan

• Fresh chopped basil or parsley

• Cracked black pepper

Serve hot with crusty bread, a crisp salad, or roasted veggies on the side.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook tortellini — it will get mushy.

• Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce.

• Let the sauce simmer and reduce before adding tortellini for best texture.

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed Italian sausage.

• Greens: Stir in kale, arugula, or spinach at the end.

• Baked Option: Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil for 3–5 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Substitutions

• Dairy-free: Use a plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan alternative.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortellini or stuffed gnocchi.

• Vegetarian: Use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Marry Me Tortellini is ideal for:

• Romantic dinners at home

• Weeknight comfort meals

• Potlucks or family-style gatherings

Pair it with:

• Garlic bread or focaccia

• A crisp Caesar or arugula salad

• Roasted broccoli or asparagus

• A glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay

It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but also works beautifully as a side to grilled proteins or as part of a pasta night spread.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish is rich in fat and flavor — best served in moderate portions with a veggie side. Here’s a general breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~600

• Protein: 20–25g

• Carbs: 45–50g

• Fat: 35g

• Calcium: High, thanks to Parmesan and cream

Tips for a lighter version:

• Use half cream + half milk

• Add more spinach or vegetables

• Reduce Parmesan slightly

This is comfort food at its best — satisfying and indulgent without going overboard.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make Marry Me Tortellini ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

Q2: Can I use frozen tortellini?

A: Absolutely. Just cook slightly under package directions and finish in the sauce to avoid overcooking.

Q3: What cheese works best?

A: Parmesan is essential, but you can mix in mozzarella for stretch or Pecorino Romano for a sharper edge.

Q4: Is this dish spicy?

A: Only slightly, from the red pepper flakes. You can omit them or adjust to taste.

Q5: Can I bake this dish?

A: Yes. Place in a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil until bubbly. It’s especially great for serving a crowd.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce.

Q7: Can I use ravioli instead of tortellini?

A: Yes — cheese or spinach ravioli work well as a substitute for tortellini.

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