Name: Creamy Cheese Tortellini Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen; 2 tablespoons salted butter; 2 cloves freshly minced garlic; ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ¼ teaspoon salt; Freshly cracked pepper, to taste; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh chopped parsley, for serving (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 56 reviews

If you are craving a dish that combines comfort, richness, and simplicity all in one bowl, this Creamy Cheese Tortellini Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender cheese-filled tortellini pasta enveloped in a silky, cheesy cream sauce that comes together in just 15 minutes with only eight ingredients. Every bite delivers the perfect harmony of savory butter, aromatic garlic, and fragrant Italian seasoning, accented by sharp Parmesan and a splash of creamy goodness. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress guests with minimal fuss, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl filled with uncooked tortellini pasta at the bottom left, each piece light yellow with a soft, folded texture. Above the bowl is a clear glass measuring cup with water inside, centered on a white marbled surface. To the right of the cup is a large silver metal pan with two handles and a smooth, slightly reflective surface. At the top right corner, there is a wooden board with finely grated and block pieces of pale yellow cheese, some scattered shavings creating a textured area. On the top left, fresh green parsley with curly leaves adds a touch of color, next to a small clear dish of finely minced garlic. A white towel with black stripes lies partially under the bowl on the bottom left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These straightforward ingredients may be simple, but each one plays a vital role in crafting the ultimate creamy and flavorful sauce that coats the tortellini perfectly. From the tender pasta shells to the richness of butter and cream, every element adds depth and texture to the dish.

2 cups cheese tortellini: fresh or frozen works great, providing that delicious cheese center you’ll love with every bite.
2 tablespoons salted butter: adds a silky richness that forms the base of the sauce and helps mellow the garlic’s sharpness.
2 cloves freshly minced garlic: infuses the sauce with bright, aromatic flavor that’s essential for depth.
¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning: a balanced blend of herbs that brings savory notes and a touch of earthiness.
¼ teaspoon salt: enhances all the flavors, making them pop without overpowering.
freshly cracked pepper: a little heat and complexity to contrast the creamy elements.
½ cup heavy cream: the star that transforms the sauce into a luxuriously smooth and velvety coating.
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese: adds sharp, umami richness and helps thicken the sauce just right.
fresh chopped parsley (optional): a bright, fresh garnish that adds color and a hint of herbal brightness at the end.

How to Make Creamy Cheese Tortellini Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini to Perfection

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—this is key for seasoning the pasta from the inside out. Add your cheese tortellini and cook until al dente, just tender enough to have a slight bite without being mushy. Once done, reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining; this starchy water will be your secret weapon to creating the perfect sauce consistency.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

With your tortellini cooked and set aside, melt the salted butter in the same pan over medium heat. Stir in freshly minced garlic, giving it just about a minute to release its intoxicating aroma without burning. Next, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly cracked pepper—this trio layers the sauce with savory, herbal notes that elevate every mouthful.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and immediately stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then allow it to thicken slightly by cooking for 2 to 3 minutes. This step takes the cream from thin to luxuriously velvety, while the Parmesan melts fully, adding that irresistible cheesy depth.

Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Return the tortellini to the pan and toss gently to coat each piece in the rich sauce. Slowly add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, stirring as you go. This simple trick loosens the sauce, helping it cling perfectly to the pasta without becoming too thick or watery, ensuring a beautifully silky finish.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, turn off the heat and give the dish a final toss. For serving, sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan and a handful of fresh chopped parsley to brighten both the flavor and appearance, making the dish as inviting visually as it is to the palate.

How to Serve Creamy Cheese Tortellini Recipe

A white bowl filled with a creamy white sauce-covered tortellini pasta, each tortellini round, plump, and yellowish, topped with small bits of black pepper, grated white cheese, and scattered fresh green parsley leaves. The bowl sits on a larger white plate, all set on a white marbled surface. The light shows the soft, smooth texture of the sauce and the pasta’s gentle folds. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or basil leaves make wonderful garnishes, adding a pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese invites additional savory notes, and a few turns of freshly cracked black pepper bring a subtle kick that keeps every bite exciting.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs effortlessly with crisp, refreshing sides such as a simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette also makes a fantastic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or special occasion, serve the creamy cheese tortellini in individual shallow bowls, topped with a sprig of fresh herbs and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Alternatively, for a more casual meal, plate it family-style on a large serving dish so everyone can help themselves. Experimenting with colorful edible flowers or microgreens can add a gourmet touch as well.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow your creamy cheese tortellini to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but don’t worry—that’s easily fixed during reheating.

Freezing

While freezing dairy-heavy sauces can sometimes lead to texture changes, this Creamy Cheese Tortellini Recipe freezes reasonably well. Place portions in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to one month. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat your tortellini gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure the tortellini heats evenly, coming back to life with all its original yumminess intact.

FAQs

Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, dried tortellini can be used, but the cooking time will be longer. Follow package instructions for al dente cooking, and keep in mind that fresh or frozen tortellini tend to deliver a softer, creamier texture in this recipe.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less thick and rich. To maintain creaminess, you might want to add a small amount of cream cheese or a roux to thicken the sauce.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian as long as you use cheese tortellini made without animal rennet and check that your Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly. Consider using vegan cheese alternatives for a vegan twist.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or peas work beautifully when added to the sauce. Add them after the garlic has cooked briefly to integrate their flavors without overwhelming the dish.

What wine pairs well with creamy cheese tortellini?

A crisp, acidic white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness beautifully, balancing the creamy sauce and enhancing the delicate cheese flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cheese Tortellini Recipe is the perfect example of how simple ingredients and a little love in the kitchen can create something truly special. It brings together comfort and elegance effortlessly, ready in just minutes for those moments when you want to treat yourself or impress friends with minimal hassle. Don’t hesitate—grab the ingredients and dive into this irresistible dish that will surely become a new favorite in your home.