Description
This recipe features tender refrigerated tortelloni pasta cooked in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce infused with garlic, tomato paste, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Enhanced with chicken broth, heavy cream, fresh Parmesan cheese, and aromatic basil, this comforting dish comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it perfect for an easy yet elegant meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 15 ounce can tomato sauce
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half and half)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Pasta and Garnish
- 1 pound refrigerated tortelloni pasta
- ½ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh chopped basil
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Aromatics: Melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat, preferably one with a lid. Add the minced garlic, tomato paste, and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Liquids and Herbs: Stir in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and oregano. Mix well to ensure the tomato paste dissolves completely into the sauce, creating a smooth and balanced base.
- Incorporate Cream and Season: Pour in the heavy cream and add the kosher salt. Stir thoroughly to combine, resulting in a rich, creamy tomato sauce.
- Cook the Tortelloni: Add the refrigerated tortelloni to the skillet, stirring gently to coat with sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover with the lid, and let cook for 5 minutes. Check the tenderness of the tortelloni; if they require more time, keep covered and cook, checking every minute until perfectly tender.
- Serve and Garnish: Once the tortelloni is tender, remove the skillet from heat. Serve immediately topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil for a bright and savory finish.
Notes
- Use a skillet with a lid to ensure even cooking of the tortelloni.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half and half for a lighter option.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- If fresh Parmesan is unavailable, use a good quality grated Parmesan for best flavor.
- Test the pasta frequently near the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: tortelloni, creamy tomato sauce, quick pasta recipe, Italian dinner, easy pasta dish
