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Creamy Tortellini

Creamy Tortellini
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This Creamy Tortellini recipe offers a warm, comforting dish featuring tender cheese-filled tortellini coated in a luscious, velvety sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and butter. Simple to prepare yet rich and elegant, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions and can be customized with various additions to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or store-bought)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Extras

  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
  • Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon as protein additions
  • Red pepper flakes or hot sauce for spice
  • Basil, thyme, or oregano for herb variations

Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, typically 3 to 5 minutes for fresh tortellini, until they float and become tender but still maintain their shape. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, approximately 1 to 2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking constantly. Allow the cream to reduce slightly for about 3 to 5 minutes until thickened.
  3. Combine Parmesan and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix well until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy texture. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Toss Tortellini in Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently toss to coat each piece evenly. Heat through for another minute to blend the flavors thoroughly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish. Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest and the flavors at their peak.

Notes

  • Use fresh tortellini for a lighter texture and faster cooking time.
  • Reserve pasta water to help adjust the sauce consistency and bind the sauce to the pasta.
  • Keep the heat moderate to avoid overheating and curdling the cream.
  • Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for better melting and richer flavor.
  • Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go for perfect seasoning balance.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy tortellini, cheese tortellini recipe, quick pasta dinner, easy creamy pasta, comfort food pasta

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/creamy-tortellini/