Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini recipe is perfect when you're craving something rich and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It uses simple ingredients that come together in a creamy, garlicky sauce to coat soft, cheese-filled tortellini. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make. Great for picky eaters and perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 (20 oz) package fresh tortellini (or 2 (9 oz) packages)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup nonfat milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Cook the tortellini in a pot of boiling, salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.

3. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly golden.

4. Slowly whisk in the nonfat milk and heavy cream. Cook while stirring until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3 to 4 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or cheese if needed.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Toss the cooked tortellini in the sauce until evenly coated.

8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 5 servings.
Total time required: 25 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.

• Stir in sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

• Swap Parmesan with Asiago or Romano cheese for a different twist.

• Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through.
Microwave reheating is also an option; cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

What type of tortellini works best for this recipe?

Fresh cheese-filled tortellini is ideal, but refrigerated or frozen tortellini can also work well.

Can I use only milk instead of cream?

Yes, though the sauce may be less rich. You can use whole milk for a better texture.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

It already is! Just ensure your tortellini doesn’t contain meat.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce a few hours ahead. Reheat gently before combining with pasta.

What herbs go well with this dish?

Parsley, basil, or thyme complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Tortellini?

Freezing isn’t recommended as the sauce may separate when reheated.

What should I serve with it?

A simple green salad or garlic bread makes a perfect pairing.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely—kids usually love the creamy, cheesy flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, peas, spinach, or mushrooms are great additions.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer a bit longer or add a touch more flour and cheese.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Tortellini is a quick, creamy, and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. With its rich sauce and tender pasta, it’s perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. Once you try it, this recipe just might become a new favorite in your rotation.