Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Tortellini Alfredo! It’s one of those cozy dinners that I always turn to when I want something warm and comforting. My husband and I absolutely love it, and it’s become a staple in our home, especially on chilly nights. There’s just something about that creamy sauce hugging each little piece of tortellini that makes it feel like a big, warm hug! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours.
The best part? This dish is a hit with everyone—kids and adults alike! The richness of the Alfredo sauce, paired with the fragrant garlic and a hint of parmesan, makes every bite a little moment of joy. It’s truly a wonderful meal for a weeknight dinner, and I promise you’ll find yourself going back for seconds. If you’re in the mood for something equally delicious, you should also try my Garlic Bread recipe to pair with it—because who doesn’t love a little bread to soak up that creamy goodness? Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Tortellini Alfredo
- Rich and creamy sauce that clings perfectly to every tortellini
- Simple, fresh ingredients for a delightful homemade meal
- Quick to prepare in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
- Versatile dish—great as a main course or a luscious side
- Easily customizable with add-ins like chicken, shrimp, or veggies
- Minced garlic adds a fragrant depth to the sauce
This dish is a classic favorite, combining the comforting flavor of Alfredo with the delightful bite of cheese-filled tortellini, making it a crowd-pleaser every time!
How to Make Tortellini Alfredo
This Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy, dreamy pasta dish that’s oh-so-easy to whip up! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner when you want something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
What You’ll Need:
- Cheese tortellini – 1 lb, fresh or frozen. I love using fresh tortellini, but frozen works just as well for convenience!
- Heavy cream – 1 cup. I prefer using Horizon Organic heavy cream for its rich texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, packed. Opt for freshly grated if you can, as it melts beautifully!
- Unsalted butter – 1/4 cup. Use unsalted to better control the saltiness of your dish.
- Garlic – 1-2 cloves, minced. I always go for 2 cloves for that extra garlic goodness, but it’s up to your taste!
- Salt and pepper – to taste. Freshly cracked black pepper adds a great kick!
- Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish. It adds a lovely pop of color and freshness!
The Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain gently and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned—keep an eye on it!
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You’ll love that creamy aroma!
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts and the sauce is smooth. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
- Gently toss the cooked tortellini in the sauce until all the pasta is well-coated. The tortellini should be swimming in that luscious Alfredo sauce!
- Remove from heat and let the dish sit for a minute to thicken slightly. This will make it even creamier!
- Serve the Tortellini Alfredo hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Dig into this delightful dish, and savor the flavors of tender tortellini enveloped in velvety Alfredo sauce. Perfect for any pasta lover!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, there’s no need to thaw it beforehand. Just cook it in boiling water for an extra minute or two longer than the package instructions recommend, and it will turn out perfectly!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as rich. To make it creamier, consider adding a tablespoon of flour when combining the cream with the butter or use a blend of cream cheese and milk for a similar texture.
How to Store Leftover Tortellini Alfredo?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the skillet to loosen the sauce and warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. This will help maintain the creamy texture!
Can I Add Vegetables or Protein to Tortellini Alfredo?
Definitely! Feel free to add cooked vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas for some color and nutrition. For protein, grilled chicken or shrimp would be delicious additions. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream for extra flavor!
