This Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato and Spinach is a colorful dish packed with flavor! The tender tortellini mixes perfectly with hearty sweet potatoes and fresh spinach for a cozy meal.
I love how everything cooks in one pan—so easy to clean up! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a delicious meal. Who doesn’t love a quick one-pan wonder? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Cheese Tortellini: Fresh tortellini adds a delightful texture. If you can’t find it, you can use dried tortellini – just cook it a bit longer according to package directions. Gluten-free options are also available if you need them.
Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and creaminess. You can use regular potatoes or butternut squash as alternatives if you prefer, but they may change the overall flavor slightly.
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing and adding flavor. If needed, you can substitute with vegetable oil, avocado oil, or melted butter. Each will bring a unique taste to your dish.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach wilts nicely and adds color. If you’re out of fresh spinach, kale or Swiss chard can work too, but be sure to chop them into smaller pieces as they can be tougher.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese gives a nice salty finish. For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or any hard cheese you like, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
How Do I Cook the Sweet Potatoes Just Right?
Cooking sweet potatoes properly is key. You want them tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Peel and dice the sweet potato into small, even cubes so they cook quickly.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet potatoes and stir occasionally.
- Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until they’re lightly browned on the outside and soft inside. You can test using a fork!
- Don’t rush this; letting them cook fully adds flavor and maintains a better texture.
How to Make Skillet Tortellini With Sweet Potato And Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (9-ounce) package of fresh cheese tortellini
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 25 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients, followed by around 15 minutes cooking everything together in a skillet. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sweet Potato:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potato to the skillet. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potato becomes tender and has a light golden color. Once done, remove the sweet potato from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Then, toss in the chopped onion, diced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 4-5 minutes until everything is softened and smells delicious.
3. Cook the Tortellini:
Next, gently add the fresh tortellini to the skillet. Pour in the broth or water, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes. This will help the tortellini steam and cook through until they are tender.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Once the tortellini is cooked, return the sweet potatoes to the skillet and add in the fresh spinach. Stir everything gently until the spinach wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season & Serve:
Finally, season with the crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper according to your taste. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt, mixing it well into the dish.
6. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your skillet tortellini immediately, adding extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini! Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, ensuring they’re cooked through. There’s no need to thaw them first; you can add them directly to the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Sweet Potatoes?
If sweet potatoes aren’t available, regular potatoes or butternut squash make great alternatives. Just keep in mind that their cooking times may vary, so be sure to adjust accordingly until they are tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them with the onion and celery to ensure they cook through before adding the tortellini.
