This skillet dish is packed with tender tortellini, sweet potatoes, and fresh spinach. It’s not only colorful but also super easy to whip up in one pan!
Cooking everything in one skillet means less mess, and more time to enjoy! I love how the sweetness of the potato pairs perfectly with the savory tortellini—it’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here, adding richness to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try spinach or mushroom tortellini instead. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tortellini or even some cooked quinoa.
Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes contribute a wonderful sweetness. If you don’t have any, look for butternut squash or regular potatoes as alternatives. They will change the flavor slightly but still be delicious!
Spinach: Fresh spinach brings great nutrients and color. In a pinch, use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water first. Kale is another great substitute if you prefer a more robust texture.
Vegetable Broth: Using vegetable broth adds depth. Chicken broth works too for a non-vegetarian version. You could also use water, but it won’t have the same rich flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty finish. Try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative, or skip it altogether if you want a lighter dish.
How Do I Cook Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Cooking sweet potatoes just right enhances their natural sweetness and flavor. Here’s how to get them tender and caramelized:
- Peel and dice your sweet potato into small, even cubes for consistent cooking.
- Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium heat before adding the sweet potatoes.
- Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for a fork-tender texture with some caramelization, which adds wonderful flavor.
Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato and Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 package (about 9-10 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take you about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping and 15-20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and wholesome meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced sweet potatoes. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly caramelized. The sweet potatoes should be fork-tender with a lovely golden color.
2. Add Onion and Garlic:
Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sweet potatoes. Stir everything together and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma!
3. Incorporate the Broth:
Pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any delicious browned bits stuck there. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing those flavors to meld together.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the tortellini to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the other ingredients. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini are cooked through and tender (check the package for specific cooking times).
5. Add Spinach and Herbs:
Now it’s time for the fresh spinach! Stir in the chopped spinach and dried Italian herbs. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts down. The color will brighten, making the dish even more appealing!
6. Season and Finish:
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Mix everything well to combine all the flavors.
7. Serve It Up:
Once everything is well mixed and heated through, remove the skillet from heat. If you’d like, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving. Enjoy this warm and comforting meal straight from the skillet!
This Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato and Spinach is not only tasty but also nourishing, combining the sweet earthiness of sweet potatoes with creamy tortellini and vibrant spinach. It’s a hearty dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just add them directly to the skillet without thawing. You may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes until they’re cooked through and tender.
Can I Substitute the Sweet Potato?
Yes! If you don’t have sweet potato, you can use butternut squash or even regular potatoes. Just make sure to dice them into small cubes for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the sweet potatoes to get them cooked properly before adding the broth.