Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini recipe is a quick and easy dish that combines cheese-filled tortellini with a savory garlic parmesan sauce. It's a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with various add-ins like sausage and broccoli.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or pot
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Stirring spoon
- Steamer basket (optional)
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- ¼ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- 1 pound Italian sausage sweet or hot), cooked and crumbled (optional
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed optional
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually around 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Drain the tortellini and set aside.
- If using sausage, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease and set aside.
- If using broccoli, steam it until tender-crisp. You can do this in a steamer basket over boiling water, in the microwave, or by blanching it in the same pot you cooked the tortellini in.
- In the same pot (or a large skillet), melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or vegetable broth).
- Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and toss gently to coat.
- If using sausage and/or broccoli, add them to the pot as well and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Don't overcook the tortellini. Freshly grated Parmesan is key for a creamy sauce. Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more broth or simmering longer. Spice it up with more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Get creative with add-ins like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.