Creamy Mushroom Tortellini Alfredo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy mushroom tortellini Alfredo offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tortellini provides a satisfying bite, while the mushrooms add a savory, earthy flavor. The homemade Alfredo sauce is rich and smooth, made with a blend of half-and-half and Parmesan cheese, ensuring that each bite is indulgent yet comforting. Plus, it’s easy to make in under 40 minutes, making it a great choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Ingredients

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

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 20-ounce package refrigerated cheese or mushroom tortellini

• 8 tablespoons butter, divided

• 16 ounces sliced baby Bella mushrooms

• ½ cup finely chopped onion

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups half-and-half

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 pinch cayenne pepper

• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon chopped fresh thyme, or to taste

Directions

1. Fill a large pot with water and 1 tablespoon olive oil; bring it to a rolling boil. Add the tortellini and cook until they float to the top and the filling is hot, about 7 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.

2. In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic, sautéing until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the vegetable mixture from the pan and add it to the bowl with the tortellini.

3. Drain any excess liquid from the mushrooms in the saucepan. Reduce the heat to medium, and melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter in the pan. Stir in the half-and-half, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick and bubbly, about 10 minutes.

4. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens.

5. Pour the sauce over the tortellini and mushroom mixture, tossing to combine. Serve in bowls and garnish with fresh thyme.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Meat loversbacon to the dish for an extra protein boost.: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or beef  to the dish for an extra protein boost.

• Vegetarian: Skip the meat options and load up on extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added texture and flavor.

• Vegan: Use dairy-free alternatives such as vegan butter, plant-based cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover creamy mushroom tortellini Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little extra half-and-half or water to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions.

2. Can I substitute the half-and-half with heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half with heavy cream for an even richer, creamier sauce.

3. Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

You can reduce the amount of butter and use low-fat or fat-free half-and-half to lighten the recipe up a bit.

4. Can I use a different type of mushroom?

Yes, you can substitute baby Bella mushrooms with other types like cremini, white button, or portobello.

5. What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy tortellini Alfredo pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

6. Can I make this recipe in advance?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and store it separately in the fridge. Simply reheat and toss with the cooked tortellini when ready to serve.

7. Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the sauce and tortellini separately, but the texture may change slightly after thawing and reheating.

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make it dairy-free by using plant-based butter, dairy-free cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

9. Can I use pre-cooked chicken or shrimp?

Yes, adding pre-cooked chicken or shrimp will save time and still add flavor to the dish.

10. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, you can cook it a bit longer to allow it to reduce, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it.

Conclusion

Creamy mushroom tortellini Alfredo is a deliciously comforting dish that’s both easy to make and sure to impress. The combination of tender tortellini, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy Parmesan sauce creates a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to be a favorite for years to come!

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