If you are craving something truly comforting, indulgent, and irresistibly delicious, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. Combining tender cheese tortellini with a rich, velvety garlic and Parmesan sauce, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe comes together quickly and promises a crowd-pleasing meal packed with layers of flavor and comforting creaminess.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a crucial role in building that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the aromatic garlic to the sharp Parmesan and creamy cheese, every element makes this dish sing with deliciousness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides a rich, creamy base that helps meld the flavors together perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds that wonderful fragrant punch that makes the sauce so inviting.
- 1 tablespoon flour: Key to thickening the sauce to just the right silky consistency.
- 3 cups chicken broth (or more as needed): Brings depth of flavor and a comforting savory undertone.
- 1/2 cup cream: Intensifies the creaminess, creating a luxuriously smooth sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Salt (to taste): Essential—but be mindful to taste first since broth and cheese can be salty on their own.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that balances the richness.
- 1 (20-oz) package cheese tortellini (uncooked): The star that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or more to taste): Brings that signature tangy, nutty bite and thickens the sauce slightly.
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese: Gives the sauce an extra velvety texture and subtle tang.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Make the sauce base
Begin by melting the butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook it gently until fragrant, about one minute—this infuses the butter with that classic garlicky aroma that sets the tone. Remove the skillet from heat, then whisk in the flour carefully to avoid lumps; this step is what will give your sauce that perfect creamy body.
Step 2: Create the creamy sauce
Return the skillet to medium-low heat and slowly whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to keep the sauce smooth. Next, add the cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. It’s important to taste here—broth and cheese can vary in saltiness, so adjust accordingly. Keep whisking until everything is beautifully combined, forming the luscious sauce that will envelop your tortellini.
Step 3: Cook the tortellini in the sauce
Add your uncooked cheese tortellini directly into the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover with a lid. The tortellini will cook right in the sauce, soaking up its creamy goodness while releasing its own cheesy flavor. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on the tenderness, starting to check after about half the package’s suggested cooking time. Don’t hesitate to add more broth if the sauce thickens too much before the pasta is fully cooked.
Step 4: Finish with cheeses and seasoning
When the tortellini is almost perfectly tender, remove the lid and stir in the Parmesan and cream cheese. These final additions enrich the sauce even further, bringing it to silky, dreamy perfection. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning, thickness, or cheesiness however you like—add a splash more cream or broth if needed or a bit more cheese if you want it extra indulgent. Serve it hot and watch this crowd-pleaser disappear fast.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a bright burst of color and freshness that beautifully contrasts the rich sauce. For a little crunch, toasted pine nuts or a dusting of extra Parmesan can elevate every bite, making it feel a little more special.
Side Dishes
This creamy tortellini pairs wonderfully with crisp salads, such as a tangy arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar to cut through the richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also complement this dish with a fresh, earthy balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon the creamy tortellini into individual shallow bowls and top each serving with a small drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat. Alternatively, create a layered bake by placing the cooked tortellini into a casserole dish, topping with mozzarella, and broiling for a golden bubbly crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors tend to meld even more, making the next-day meal just as delightful. Just give it a gentle stir before reheating.
Freezing
It’s best to freeze the sauce and the tortellini separately if possible, to maintain texture. The sauce can be frozen in a sealed bag or container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating slowly on the stove and adding freshly cooked tortellini for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to keep the sauce smooth and prevent sticking. This way your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Recipe will taste just as luscious as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Vegetable broth makes a great substitute and keeps the dish vegetarian-friendly. Just be sure to choose a flavorful broth to maintain that rich depth in the sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can adapt this recipe by using dairy-free butter, cream alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream, and vegan Parmesan substitutes. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delightful.
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen tortellini works wonderfully. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time and watch the sauce consistency, adjusting liquid as needed so it remains creamy and not too thick.
How do I know when the tortellini is cooked perfectly?
Start checking the tortellini halfway through the cooking time on the package. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite to it, known as al dente. Overcooking can make it mushy, so keep an eye on it.
Can I add vegetables or protein to this recipe?
Definitely! Spinach, peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms are fantastic additions. For protein, grilled chicken or cooked bacon bits make this pasta even more substantial and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to meals for any occasion that calls for hearty comfort food. It’s simple to prepare but feels luxuriously elegant, perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends. So pull out your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to dive into a bowl of creamy, garlicky goodness that warms the soul and satisfies every craving.
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini is a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring tender cheese tortellini simmered in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce. This easy-to-make recipe combines a savory butter and garlic base with chicken broth, cream, and cheeses to create a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any day.
Ingredients
Sauce Base
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour
Sauce
- 3 cups chicken broth (or more as needed)
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 (20-oz) package cheese tortellini, uncooked
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese
Instructions
- Make sauce base: Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove the skillet from heat, then whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Make sauce: Return the skillet to medium-low heat. While whisking constantly, gradually add 3 cups of chicken broth, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Then whisk in 1/2 cup cream, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, salt to taste (after tasting the sauce), and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper.
- Cook tortellini: Add the uncooked 20-ounce package of cheese tortellini directly into the sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is almost done—begin checking for doneness halfway through the package’s recommended cooking time. Add additional chicken broth as needed to keep the sauce at your desired consistency.
- Finish and serve: Once the tortellini is nearly cooked through, remove the lid. Stir in 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon cream cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper, and tweak the consistency by adding more broth or cream if too thick, or simmering uncovered for a few minutes if too thin. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Taste your broth and cheese before adding salt as both can vary in saltiness.
- Adjust liquid quantities to achieve preferred sauce thickness.
- Use fresh garlic for best aroma and flavor.
- Feel free to substitute half-and-half for cream for a lighter sauce.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
