This Creamy Basil Pesto Cheese Tortellini Pasta is the perfect weeknight comfort dish—rich, flavorful, and beautifully balanced. Cheese-filled tortellini are tossed in a luscious basil pesto cream sauce with sweet corn and colorful peppers, then finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan. This vegetarian-friendly version skips the bacon for a wholesome, family-friendly meal that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and satisfying — ready in just about 30 minutes.
• A creamy pesto sauce that clings perfectly to cheese tortellini.
• Sweet corn and bell peppers add a delightful crunch and color.
• Family-friendly, comforting, and great for busy weeknights.
• Easily adaptable for extra protein or veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 500 g cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
• 1 red bell pepper, cored and diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
• 2 tbsp basil pesto
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prep the ingredients:
   Wash and dry all produce. Dice the red pepper and thinly slice the shallot. If using fresh corn, remove kernels from the cob.
2. Cook the tortellini:
   Bring a large pot of salted water (10 cups water + 2 tsp salt) to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook for 2–3 minutes or until tender. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the tortellini and set aside.
3. Sauté vegetables:
   In a large non-stick pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shallots and peppers, and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Make the creamy pesto sauce:
   Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the basil pesto, sour cream, corn, and reserved pasta water. Mix until well combined and smooth.
5. Combine with tortellini:
   Add the cooked tortellini to the pan, along with half the Parmesan. Stir gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Serve:
   Divide the creamy tortellini between bowls. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
• Extra veggies: Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for more color and nutrients.
• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Vegan version: Use vegan tortellini and replace sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as the cream sauce and tortellini may lose their texture when thawed.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe lighter?

You can use low-fat sour cream and reduce the Parmesan cheese for a lighter version without compromising taste.

Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time according to the package directions, usually 8–10 minutes.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt or crème fraîche are great substitutes that add creaminess and tang.

Can I use homemade pesto?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto brings an even fresher flavor to this dish.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy sauce and mild flavors are perfect for children.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can cook the tortellini and prepare the sauce separately, then combine and reheat just before serving.

What type of cheese tortellini works best?

Ricotta and spinach or three-cheese tortellini pair beautifully with the basil pesto.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

You can sprinkle toasted pine nuts or almonds on top for extra texture and flavor.

What side dishes go well with this pasta?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great companions.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add a bit more reserved pasta water or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

This Creamy Basil Pesto Cheese Tortellini Pasta with Corn is a delightful, quick, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich, herby sauce, tender tortellini, and bursts of sweetness from the corn, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat.

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