June 28, 2026 · 5 min

Lemon Cream Tortelloni with Spinach and Parmesan

Dinner5 min794 cal / serving

There’s something extra special about tortelloni-those oversized, pillowy pasta pockets stuffed with a rich cheese filling. In this recipe, we pair them with fresh spinach and a luscious lemon cream sauce that’s bright and comforting at the same time. The sauce comes together quickly using a cream sauce base, mushroom stock concentrate and a touch of garlic powder, finished with a generous squeeze of lemon and a shower of Parmesan.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality pasta dinner that feels indulgent yet light. The lemon adds a fresh zing that cuts through the cream, while the spinach brings a pop of color and nutrients. Serve it with extra Parmesan on top for a truly irresistible meal.


Recipe details

Dinner5 min794 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories794 kcalProtein17.5 gFat56.9 gCarbs52.3 gSugar17.6 gFiber3.6 gSodium8893 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: containsFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies.


Ingredients

Parmesan Cheese0.25 cup Parmesan CheeseView ingredient guide
Tortelloni9 ounce TortelloniView ingredient guide
Spinach5 ounce SpinachView ingredient guide
Cream Sauce Base4 ounce Cream Sauce BaseView ingredient guide
Lemon0.5 unit LemonView ingredient guide
Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Garlic PowderView ingredient guide
Butter2 tablespoon (tbsp) ButterView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortelloni and cook according to package directions until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Stir in the cream sauce base, mushroom stock concentrate, garlic powder and the juice of half the lemon. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
  4. Add the drained tortelloni to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Recipe Tips

For a richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of the cream sauce base if you have it on hand.

Don’t overcook the tortelloni; they should be al dente to hold up in the sauce.

Reserve extra pasta water to adjust sauce consistency-it’s a great trick for silky pasta dishes.

FAQ

Can I use frozen tortelloni?

Yes, frozen tortelloni works well. Cook according to package directions, adding a minute or two to the boiling time.

What can I substitute for the cream sauce base?

You can use 1/2 cup heavy cream mixed with 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth as a substitute.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to revive the sauce.

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