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Creamy Cheese Tortellini Recipe

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4.3 from 56 reviews

Creamy Cheese Tortellini is a quick and indulgent pasta dish featuring cheese-filled tortellini cooked to perfection and tossed in a rich, cheesy cream sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes with only eight simple ingredients, this comforting side dish blends fresh garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan for a satisfying Italian-American classic.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Cheese Tortellini

  • 2 cups cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen

Sauce

  • 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

Garnish

  • Fresh chopped parsley, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh or frozen tortellini. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
  2. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the tortellini and remove it from the pot. Keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.
  3. Prepare Sauce Base: In the same pan, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Add the freshly minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Toss Tortellini in Sauce: Return the drained tortellini to the pan with the cream sauce. Gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring gently, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency and coats the tortellini smoothly.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Plate the creamy tortellini and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley on top if desired for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh or frozen cheese tortellini according to preference; cooking times may vary slightly.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially considering the saltiness of the Parmesan and butter.
  • Reserved pasta water helps to thin the sauce and adds a silky texture thanks to the starch.
  • Garnishing with fresh parsley adds brightness and color, but is optional.
  • This recipe pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/creamy-cheese-tortellini-recipe/