This Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato and Spinach is a cozy one-pan wonder! The soft tortellini pairs perfectly with sweet, creamy potatoes and fresh spinach, making it colorful and tasty.
Honestly, who can resist a meal that cooks in one skillet? I love how quick and easy it is to whip up. Plus, it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I recommend using cheese tortellini for a rich, creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using spinach or butternut squash tortellini, which adds more veggies!
Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes bring sweetness and nutrition. If you don’t have them, try butternut squash or even regular potatoes, but adjust cooking time for softer varieties.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is my favorite for this dish, but kale can be a sturdy alternative. Frozen spinach works too; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Bacon: For a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta can be used. You could also skip the meat and use smoked paprika for a similar flavor without the bacon!
Heavy Cream: If you’re aiming for a lighter dish, substitute with half-and-half or Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk thickened with cornstarch.
How Do I Cook the Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Cooking the sweet potatoes right is key to this recipe. Here’s how to get them tender and flavorful:
- Cut sweet potatoes into small, even cubes to ensure they cook evenly.
- Start with medium-high heat in your skillet. Add them to the bacon fat for extra flavor.
- Stir occasionally and cook for about 8-10 minutes until they’re tender and slightly browned. If they begin to stick, drizzling in a bit of olive oil can help!
How to Make Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato and Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 package (about 9 oz) cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into small cubes
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prep and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the sweet potatoes and bacon, 15 minutes combining everything in the skillet, and the rest just getting it all on the table. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s easy to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook it until it’s crispy. Once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, but keep that tasty bacon fat in the skillet—it adds great flavor!
2. Cook the Sweet Potato:
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the diced sweet potato. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to be tender and slightly browned. If they start to stick, just add a little olive oil or butter to help them along.
3. Add Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until everything is nice and fragrant.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
While the vegetables are cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once they’re done, drain and set them aside for now.
5. Deglaze the Skillet:
Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the skillet. This deglazing step helps lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Scrape those up with a wooden spoon for extra flavor!
6. Add Cream and Season:
Now it’s time to stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let it simmer for just a minute so everything can combine nicely.
7. Combine Everything:
Finally, add the cooked tortellini, fresh spinach, and your crispy bacon back into the skillet. Toss everything gently until the spinach wilts and the tortellini is coated in the creamy sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from heat and serve your delicious dish warm. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato and Spinach!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is recommended for its flavor, feel free to swap it for spinach, mushroom, or butternut squash tortellini for a different twist!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems dry.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even frozen peas to enhance nutrition and flavor. Just add them in after the sweet potatoes and before the broth!
