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Creamy Cheese Tortellini

Creamy Cheese Tortellini
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Creamy Cheese Tortellini is a delicious pasta dish featuring tender cheese-filled tortellini enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce made from heavy cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, it offers a comforting and elegant meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests. This versatile recipe is family-friendly, easy to customize with proteins or vegetables, and can be adapted for dietary preferences, making it a beloved comfort food that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon bits (for protein boost)
  • Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms (for vegetable add-ins)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for spicy kick)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3 to 5 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
  2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and stir to blend the garlic and butter flavors.
  3. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Slowly whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening to reach desired consistency.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently toss the cooked tortellini in the creamy sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated and heated through. This allows the pasta to soak up the luxurious sauce flavors.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley on top for a bright, fresh finish, then serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

  • Choose quality tortellini (fresh or premium frozen) for best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcook pasta; aim for al dente to maintain a pleasant bite and prevent mushiness.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for optimal melting and taste.
  • Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to pasta.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving to preserve their aroma and color.
  • For dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut or almond milk and use vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy cheese tortellini, pasta recipe, easy dinner, comfort food, vegetarian pasta, cheesy sauce

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