Creamy Tomato Skillet Tortellini (20 minutes) Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini until just shy of package directions (they’ll finish in the sauce).
Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Sauté 1/2 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until soft and fragrant.
Stir in 2 cups marinara or crushed tomatoes, 1/2 to 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Simmer 3–4 minutes.
Add cooked tortellini and 1 heaping cup shredded mozzarella.
Stir until melty and coated. Season with salt and pepper.
Fold in a large handful of fresh spinach until wilted. Finish with grated Parmesan and chopped basil.
Serve hot.
Baked Three-Cheese Tortellini (30–35 minutes) Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Boil tortellini for 1–2 minutes less than package time. Drain.
In a bowl, mix 2 cups marinara, 1/2 cup ricotta, and 1/2 cup cream.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Combine sauce with tortellini and 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Pour into baking dish. Top with another 1 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan.
Bake 15–20 minutes until bubbly.
Broil 1–2 minutes for golden spots. Rest 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley or basil.
Pesto Veggie Tortellini (15 minutes, stovetop) Cook tortellini in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water; drain.
In a large skillet, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Sauté sliced zucchini or mushrooms until golden. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they burst.
Lower heat and add 1/3 to 1/2 cup pesto with a splash of pasta water to loosen. Stir in tortellini.
Toss with 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or shredded mozzarella until it starts to melt.
Finish with Parmesan and black pepper.