Creamy Cheese Tortellini is a quintessential comfort food dish, combining tender pasta pockets filled with cheese and coated in a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe, requiring only eight ingredients and taking about 15 minutes to prepare, is perfect for those seeking a quick yet delicious meal option.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cheese tortellini
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 cloves freshly minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Freshly cracked pepper, to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley, for serving (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the tortellini to the boiling water and cook them according to the package instructions or until al dente, usually around 3-5 minutes.
Step 2:
Before draining the tortellini, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and set it aside. Then, drain the tortellini and keep them warm, preferably by covering them or placing them in a warm bowl.
Step 3:
In the same pan used for boiling the tortellini, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly cracked pepper to the melted butter, stirring and cooking for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Step 4:
Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese to the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce slightly thickens.
Step 5:
Reintroduce the cooked tortellini to the pan, mixing them thoroughly with the creamy sauce. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
COOKING Note:
The reserved pasta water is starchy and can help in creating a silky, well-emulsified sauce that clings to the tortellini beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the creamy cheese tortellini hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and a touch of color.
Tips:
- For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the cream.
- You can enhance the dish with additions like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cooked chicken pieces to make it a more substantial meal.
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cooking Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
- Protein: 15-20 grams per serving
- Sodium: 500-700 mg per serving
Creamy Cheese Tortellini is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a luxurious and satisfying meal in just a matter of minutes. This dish, with its perfect balance of tender pasta, rich sauce, and aromatic seasonings, is sure to become a go-to for those in need of a quick yet indulgent meal.
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