Best Easy Tortelli Maremmani Recipe

Spinach and ricotta-filled pasta from Maremma dressed in hearty meat sauce is pure Tuscan soul food. A protein-rich mediterranean favorite that freezes well for family meal prep.

Cook 80 min Difficulty HARD 398 kcal
#mediterranean #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • fresh spinach 5 cups
  • ricotta cheese 1.5 cups
  • grated parmesan cheese 0.5 cups
  • large eggs 2 pieces
  • all-purpose flour 2.5 cups
  • ground beef 12 oz
  • ground pork 8 oz
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
  • canned crushed tomatoes 2 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 2 tbsp
  • garlic cloves 2 pieces
  • nutmeg 0.25 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • fresh sage 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 42 g 42%
Protein 25 g 25%
Fat 13 g 33%
Serving size 250g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Cook the spinach in a large skillet over medium heat with 1 tbsp olive oil until wilted, then transfer to a colander and squeeze out excess moisture thoroughly.

  2. 2

    In a bowl, combine ricotta, spinach, eggs, parmesan, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper, mixing until smooth for the tortelli filling.

  3. 3

    Prepare pasta dough by mixing flour, 1 pinch salt, and eggs; knead until smooth, then cover and rest for 30 minutes.

  4. 4

    On a floured surface, roll the dough into thin sheets; cut into squares and place a spoonful of filling in the center of each, folding and sealing tightly to form tortelli.

  5. 5

    Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a saucepan; sauté finely chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until translucent, then add ground beef and pork. Brown the meat well, add the sage, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper, and simmer gently for 30 minutes to develop hearty flavor.

  6. 6

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook tortelli in batches for 3–4 minutes until they float. Drain carefully to avoid tearing.

  7. 7

    Serve the tortelli topped with warm meat sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The core of Tortelli Maremmani is the spinach and ricotta filling, which creates the signature creamy, herbaceous interior that distinguishes this pasta. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy ricotta delivers classic Tuscan flavors and texture.
Q. Which ingredient makes the biggest difference in the sauce flavor?
The blend of ground beef, ground pork, and fresh sage in the meat sauce provides deep, savory complexity. Sage, in particular, brings a bold, aromatic note that gives the sauce its Tuscan character.
Q. How should I control the heat when cooking the meat sauce?
Begin by sautéing onion and garlic over medium heat so they don't burn. When browning the meat, keep the heat at medium to high, stirring frequently for even color. Once meat and tomatoes are added, reduce to gentle simmer for at least 30 minutes; this ensures the sauce develops rich flavors without drying out.
Q. How can I prevent my tortelli from falling apart or being undercooked?
Seal tortelli edges tightly after filling, and cook them in gently boiling water. Avoid overcrowding the pot, and remove them as soon as they float—usually after 3–4 minutes—to prevent overcooking or tearing.
Q. What's the nutrition profile of this recipe per serving?
Each 250g serving of Tortelli Maremmani contains about 398 kcal, with 42g carbohydrates (42%), 25g protein (25%), and 13g fat (33%). It's relatively high in protein and fits well into a Mediterranean diet.
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