5 Delicious Tortellini Recipes You Have to Try

In the world of pasta, tortellini stand out with their unique ring-shaped, stuffed pasta form, originally from the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna. Known for their versatility and the delightful variety of fillings, tortellini can be the star of both comforting, traditional dishes and innovative culinary creations. In this post, we explore five delightful tortellini recipes that are bound to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these recipes will elevate your pasta game to new heights.

Classic Tortellini in Brodo

Tortellini in Brodo is a classic Italian dish, where tortellini are served in a rich, flavorful broth. This recipe brings comfort and a taste of authentic Italian cuisine right to your table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh tortellini (cheese or meat-filled)
• 8 cups (1.8 liters) of chicken or beef broth
• Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper if needed.
2. Cook the Tortellini: Once the broth is simmering, add the tortellini. Cook according to package instructions, typically about 2-5 minutes for fresh pasta.
3. Serve: Ladle the tortellini and broth into bowls. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley.

Tortellini Al Forno

This recipe transforms tortellini into a baked pasta dish, layered with sauce, cheese, and possibly meat for a hearty meal that’s perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) of cheese or meat-filled tortellini
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ¹⁄₂ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Tortellini: Cook tortellini according to package instructions until just tender. Drain.
3. Layer: In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, followed by tortellini. Dot with ricotta, then cover with mozzarella and Parmesan.
4. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover, and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and cheese is golden.
5. Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil.

Creamy Tortellini with Spinach and Sun-dried Tomatoes

For a touch of gourmet flair, this recipe combines the creaminess of alfredo with the vibrant flavors of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini
• 2 cups heavy cream
• ³⁄₄ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups spinach, fresh
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Cook Tortellini: Boil tortellini until al dente. Drain.
2. Prepare Sauce: In the same pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add cream and Parmesan, stirring until cheese melts. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add Ingredients: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts.
4. Combine: Return tortellini to the pot, mix well to coat.
5. Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan and serve hot.

Lemon-Parmesan Tortellini Salad

This refreshing, cold tortellini salad is perfect for summer meals or as a light lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini
• ¹⁄₂ cup olive oil
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ¹⁄₄ cup roasted pine nuts
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook Tortellini: Boil tortellini until just tender. Drain and cool.
2. Prepare Dressing: Mix olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Mix Salad: Combine tortellini, tomatoes, basil, and pine nuts with the dressing.
4. Chill: Refrigerate for at least an hour to let flavors meld.

Tortellini with Bolognese

Marrying the famous Bolognese sauce with tortellini results in a hearty and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) meat-filled tortellini
• 2 cups Bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
• Grated Parmesan for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat Sauce: Warm the Bolognese sauce in a saucepan.
2. Cook Tortellini: Meanwhile, cook tortellini according to package instructions.
3. Mix: Drain tortellini and add to the sauce. Stir in cream if using.
4. Serve: Serve hot, topped with Parmesan.

🌟 Note: When choosing your tortellini, consider the filling as it significantly affects the flavor profile of your dish. Cheese-filled tortellini work wonderfully with creamy or tomato-based sauces, while meat-filled varieties are perfect for richer, meatier sauces.

The recipes above showcase the delightful versatility of tortellini, turning this petite pasta into a culinary canvas for a range of flavors, from the traditional broth to innovative salads and creamy sauces. Each dish not only celebrates the unique taste of tortellini but also provides a comforting meal or an impressive dish for guests. With these five recipes in your repertoire, you're equipped to explore the vast culinary possibilities of tortellini, enhancing your pasta dishes with both creativity and tradition.