Tortellini Alfredo
A creamy and indulgent pasta dish that warms the soul and is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package Tortellini (fresh or frozen) Choose cheese, meat, or spinach-filled tortellini.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- ¼ cup Unsalted Butter Vegan butter can be used as an alternative.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Roasted garlic can be used for a different taste.
- ¾ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Freshly grated is preferable; can substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- as needed Fresh Parsley, optional for garnish Adds color and freshness.
Instructions
Cooking the Tortellini
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until tender but firm to the bite (al dente). This usually takes about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini and longer for frozen. Drain and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine.
- Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring, allowing it to melt slowly to create a rich, velvety sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finishing Touches
- Gently fold in the cooked tortellini, ensuring each piece is coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Add vegetables like frozen peas or sautéed spinach for extra nutrition. For a heartier meal, try adding grilled chicken or shrimp. A dash of red pepper flakes can spice up the dish. For a dairy-free version, use cashew cream and nutritional yeast.