Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Tortellini with Caramelized Onions

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Tortellini with Caramelized Onions is a comforting, rich, and flavorful pasta dish that brings together tender tortellini, earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and sweet caramelized onions. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering layers of textures and flavors that make it feel indulgent while still being relatively simple to prepare. The combination of creamy sauce, savory mushrooms, and the sweetness of slow-cooked onions creates a harmony that makes this recipe ideal for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

Ingredients:

For the Tortellini:

• 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 8 oz (225g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Caramelized Onions:

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Preparation:

Step 1:
Start by preparing the caramelized onions. Heat 2 tbsp of butter and 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, until they become soft and golden brown. If desired, add 1 tsp of sugar to enhance the sweetness of the onions. Once caramelized, set the onions aside.

Step 2:
While the onions are caramelizing, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water to help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 3:
In the same skillet used for caramelizing the onions, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes, until they are browned and tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4:
Add the minced garlic and dried thyme to the mushrooms. Cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 5:
Reduce the heat to low and add the fresh spinach to the mushroom mixture. Stir until the spinach wilts, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the cream to heat through, and then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7:
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the mushroom and spinach sauce. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 8:
Top the tortellini with the caramelized onions and gently fold them into the pasta. Serve the dish warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Variation:

• Protein Addition: Add sautéed chicken, Italian sausage, or crispy pancetta for extra protein.
• Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the Parmesan cheese with a vegetarian alternative to make this dish fully vegetarian while keeping its rich flavor.
• Herb Variation: Substitute the dried thyme with fresh basil or rosemary for a different herbaceous note.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortellini to accommodate gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing flavor.

Cooking Note:

• Caramelizing the Onions: Be patient when caramelizing onions. Slow cooking at low to medium heat ensures deep, rich flavors. Avoid rushing this process by increasing the heat, as this could burn the onions instead of bringing out their sweetness.
• Tortellini Tips: If using frozen tortellini, cook them directly from frozen without thawing to maintain their texture. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, as they cook quickly.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Tortellini with Caramelized Onions alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette for balance.
• Pair the dish with a crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• A glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the sauce, while a light red like Pinot Noir pairs well with the earthiness of the mushrooms.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: The caramelized onions can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently before folding into the dish.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative for a non-dairy version. Ensure the Parmesan is also replaced with a dairy-free cheese.
• Extra Creaminess: For an even creamier sauce, add a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone to the sauce mixture.
• Fresh Herbs: For added freshness, garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or basil just before serving.

Prep Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 25 minutes (includes caramelizing onions)

Total Time:

• 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 15 g
• Sodium: 620 mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly for this recipe. Just cook according to the package instructions and drain before adding to the sauce.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the caramelized onions and the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then reheat and combine with the cooked tortellini before serving.

3. What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a lighter version. Keep in mind that this will alter the richness of the dish.

4. How do I keep the tortellini from becoming mushy?
Be sure to cook the tortellini just until al dente according to the package directions. If they are overcooked, they may become mushy when mixed with the sauce.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as freezing may affect the texture of the creamy sauce and the tortellini. However, if you must freeze, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Conclusion:

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Tortellini with Caramelized Onions is the ultimate comfort food dish, combining earthy mushrooms, tender spinach, and sweet caramelized onions with cheesy tortellini. The creamy sauce binds everything together, making every bite indulgent and flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a quick yet fancy dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this tortellini recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and creamy elements, this pasta dish is both versatile and delicious, and it’s one that you’ll want to make again and again.

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