Cozy up with a comforting plate of creamy tortellini! These cheese-filled pasta rings are a staple of Italian cuisine, and when paired with rich and creamy sauces, they become a truly satisfying meal. In this collection of 20 mouthwatering recipes, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of creamy tortellini. From classic combinations like garlic parmesan and spinach ricotta to innovative twists featuring sun-dried tomatoes, lemon butter, and pesto, there’s something for everyone in this indulgent lineup.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to hit the spot. So go ahead, get creative with your tortellini, and let the comfort food magic begin!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
This comforting dish combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and creamy sauce with tender tortellini, perfect for a cozy night in. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy sauce. If necessary, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Tortellini in Tomato Sauce
This classic Italian dish is a comforting and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Fresh spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, and tender tortellini come together in a rich tomato sauce that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh tortellini
– 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of canned crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stuff each tortellini with a mixture of spinach, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Place stuffed tortellini in the tomato sauce and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tortellini Alfredo with Mushrooms and Peas
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish, featuring tender tortellini wrapped in a decadent alfredo sauce, sautéed mushrooms, and sweet peas.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add peas and cook for an additional minute.
4. Reduce heat to low. Whisk together heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired sauce consistency.
5. Combine cooked tortellini, mushroom-pea mixture, and alfredo sauce in the skillet. Toss until coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Tortellini Bake with Italian Sausage
This hearty casserole combines the comfort of cheese-filled tortellini, spicy Italian sausage, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes; bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, sausage mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Tortellini Salad
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Tortellini Salad Recipe
A delightful summer salad that combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy tortellini. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and basil leaves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the tomato-basil mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemon Butter Tortellini with Shrimp and Asparagus
Elevate your pasta game with this bright and flavorful dish, perfect for a spring evening dinner or quick weeknight meal. The combination of tender shrimp, crunchy asparagus, and creamy lemon butter sauce will surely become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tortellini
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tbsp butter. Once melted, add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and garlic. Pour into the skillet with asparagus and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked tortellini and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring all ingredients are well coated with the lemon butter sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Tortellini with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Pesto Tortellini with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, combining fresh cherry tomatoes with the richness of pesto and the convenience of store-bought tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until tomatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted cherry tomatoes and pesto. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
6. Combine cooked tortellini with the tomato-pesto mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tortellini Soup with Spinach and Bacon
Cozy up with this comforting soup that combines tender tortellini, crispy bacon, and nutritious spinach in a rich and creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini (about 20 pieces)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pot.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add tortellini, heavy cream, and cooked bacon to the pot. Simmer for 8-10 minutes or until tortellini is tender.
6. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tortellini Carbonara with Pancetta and Peas
A rich and creamy Italian dish that combines the flavors of tender tortellini, crispy pancetta, and sweet peas. This recipe is a twist on the classic carbonara, adding some color and freshness to the traditional version.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 slices of pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (115g) frozen peas
– 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the reserved pasta water, pancetta, and peas to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Tortellini with Sausage and Peppers
This hearty one-pot dish is a twist on traditional pasta e sausage, featuring tender tortellini, flavorful sausage, and colorful peppers. A perfect weeknight meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-16 cheese-filled tortellini
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes more.
3. Stir in tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and add tortellini.
5. Cook, covered, until pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Tortellini Primavera with Garlic Herb Sauce
Brighten up your table with this vibrant spring-inspired pasta dish, bursting with flavors of fresh herbs and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini (about 12 oz)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, snap peas, carrots)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables to the skillet and cook 3-4 minutes until tender.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and butter until melted.
5. Combine cooked tortellini with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Tortellini with Three Cheeses
Baked Tortellini with Three Cheeses: A Creamy, Cheesy Twist on Classic Lasagna
This comforting casserole combines tender tortellini, rich cheese sauce, and a blend of melted mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta for a satisfying main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, olive oil, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked tortellini. Top with half of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini in Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce
This rich and creamy pasta dish combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, vodka-infused sauce, and tender tortellini filled with a blend of cheeses. A perfect meal for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup vodka
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes) and vodka to the skillet. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked tortellini with the creamy tomato vodka sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Sage Tortellini with Walnuts
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of brown butter with the earthy taste of sage, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy walnut sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown, stirring frequently (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped sage leaves. Let it infuse for 1 minute.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the saucepan and toss with brown butter mixture until coated.
5. In a small skillet, toast walnuts over medium heat until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Combine toasted walnuts with Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
7. Serve tortellini topped with walnut-Parmesan mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Tortellini Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze: A Fresh Take on a Classic Combination
Combine the creamy richness of cheese-filled tortellini with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and basil, all tied together with a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tomato slices and chopped basil.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the tomato mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange cooked tortellini on top of the tomato mixture.
5. Reduce balsamic vinegar by half in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened and syrupy (about 10 minutes).
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the tortellini and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini with Roasted Garlic and White Wine Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy and aromatic tortellini dish, featuring roasted garlic and a velvety white wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 4 cloves of garlic
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine
– 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast garlic cloves in a foil-lined baking sheet with 2 tablespoons olive oil for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, white wine, chicken broth, and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce sauce by half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked tortellini and white wine sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Tortellini with Fresh Basil
This Italian-inspired dish combines the classic flavors of arrabbiata sauce, rich and creamy cheese-filled tortellini, and the brightness of fresh basil. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked tortellini and arrabbiata sauce. If sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water.
6. Serve hot, topped with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). Cooking time: 20-25 minutes.
Tortellini and Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of tender tortellini, savory meatballs, and rich marinara sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
4. Form meat mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over meatballs and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a large skillet, heat marinara sauce over medium-high heat. Add baked meatballs and simmer for 5-7 minutes to coat.
7. Serve meatballs and marinara sauce over cooked tortellini. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini with Butternut Squash and Sage Brown Butter
This autumnal pasta dish combines the comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash, sage, and nutty brown butter to create a cozy and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tortellini
– 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
4. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped sage and cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine roasted squash, cooked tortellini, and brown butter sauce in a serving dish. Toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish featuring chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a velvety cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tortellini
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. Add chicken and sun-dried tomatoes; cook until heated through.
4. Pour in heavy cream; stir until sauce thickens slightly (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked tortellini, chicken mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a taste adventure! This collection of 20 creamy tortellini recipes offers a world of comforting dinner possibilities. From classic combinations like cream and parmesan to more adventurous pairings like shrimp and asparagus, there’s something for everyone. Discover rich and cheesy sauces, bold flavors, and fresh twists on old favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty bake or a light and refreshing salad, these recipes will inspire your next meal.
