tortellini pasta recipe

The Best tortellini pasta recipe

Creamy Garlic & Herb Tortellini in Tomato Sauce

4.7 from 1920 votes

A comforting dish featuring homemade tortellini nestled in a rich tomato sauce, lightly seasoned with garlic and fresh herbs for a restaurant-quality meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time25 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 cup homemade or store-bought marinara sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

For Serving

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Make a well in the center and add the egg.
2. 2
   Using your hands, mix the dough until it forms a shaggy mass. Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp towel and rest for 30 minutes.
3. 3
   Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 2-inch squares to form tortellini shapes.
4. 4
   Preheat a baking sheet at 375°F. Arrange tortellini in a single layer and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
5. 5
   While tortellini bakes, heat marinara sauce in a pot over medium heat. Stir in garlic until fragrant, then add heavy cream and Parmesan. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. 6
   Once tortellini is golden, remove from oven and transfer to a large skillet. Pour sauce over tortellini and toss to coat evenly. Stir in parsley and basil.
7. 7
   Top with shredded mozzarella and bake uncovered for 5–7 minutes until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly.

🔧Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18💛Saturated Fat: 9❤️Cholesterol: 50🧂Sodium: 750🌾Total Carbs: 40🥦Dietary Fiber: 3🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 14

📝Notes

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine while simmering the sauce.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic & Herb Tortellini in Tomato Sauce

How do I make sure my homemade tortellini stays fresh longer?

Store cooked tortellini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a bag or container. Reheat gently in a pot of boiling water or microwave with a splash of water until fully heated.

Can I substitute dried pasta for homemade tortellini?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the shape slightly. Use pre-made stuffed pasta shells, like ravioli or small tortelloni, and cut them in half lengthwise to mimic the rolled shape of homemade tortellini. Rinse them briefly to remove excess starch before cooking.

What’s the best way to prevent the tortellini from sticking together?

Cook them in a pot of well-salted water with a pinch of baking soda (about 1 teaspoon) to break down the starch. Stir frequently and cook until al dente—overcooking makes them mushy and sticky.

How can I customize the filling to suit dietary preferences?

For a lighter option, swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken. Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to boost freshness. For a vegetarian twist, use lentils, mushrooms, and herbs. Just ensure the filling stays moist enough to hold the shape when rolled.