8 Tortellini Recipes for 2024: Easy + Tasty Meals

Tortellini is the perfect base for quick, delicious meals that the whole family can enjoy. With its satisfying, flavorful filling and chewy pasta texture, tortellini makes it easy to create a range of dishes with just a handful of ingredients.

What’s even better is that pre-made tortellini is widely available, which means you can put together a gourmet-style meal in minutes. You’ll find tortellini in different flavors and fillings, so there’s plenty of room to experiment with new dishes and tastes without much extra prep.

Because tortellini goes with just about any sauce, protein, or veggie combo, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy. Keep reading for all the inspiration you need to try new, easy tortellini recipes that are as flexible as they are tasty.

1. Roasted Veg & Pesto Tortellini

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb cheese tortellini

• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half

• 1 cup grape tomatoes

• 1 zucchini, sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow squash, sliced

• ½ red onion, sliced

• 2 cups spinach

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• ⅓ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat your oven to 425 °F (220 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans, grape tomatoes, zucchini, red bell pepper, yellow squash, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.

3. Spread the vegetables on the baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.

4. While the vegetables roast, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

5. Once the vegetables are done, place the cooked tortellini in a large serving bowl. Add the roasted vegetables, fresh spinach, and pesto, tossing everything together until well combined.

6. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed, and serve warm. 

Overview 🕵️

This is a versatile, veggie-packed dish that’s easy to adapt. You can vary the vegetables based on what you have or what’s in season, making it a great option for using up produce. The combination of roasted veggies with fresh spinach and creamy pesto gives the dish a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with cheese tortellini.

For an extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes to the pesto mix or directly to the finished dish. It’s a simple addition that adds heat and depth to the flavors. This recipe is easy to adjust, flavorful, and perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

2. Sausage & Bean Tortellini Soup

Ingredients 📃

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 4 ounces sliced chorizo

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

• 1 (15-ounce) can white beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 cup passata (or crushed tomatoes)

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 (8- to 9-ounce) package of tortellini (any variety)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ¼ cup prepared pesto (optional)

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan, for serving

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced chorizo and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.

2. Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes or until the onions are soft and the mushrooms are tender.

3. Stir in the white beans, passata, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

4. Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually 4-5 minutes, until the tortellini is tender.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using pesto, stir it in just before serving for added flavor.

6. Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and enjoy!

Overview 🕵️

This is a simple, hearty dish that’s full of comforting flavors. The chorizo adds a smoky, spicy kick, balanced by creamy white beans and rich broth. Using pre-made tortellini makes it a fast, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy evenings.

You can adapt this recipe to fit your taste. Try using Italian sausage instead of chorizo for a milder flavor, or add extra vegetables like spinach or kale for a boost of greens. For a vegetarian twist, skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. The beans and mushrooms still give the soup plenty of depth.

Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the broth or a fresh green salad on the side. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top and a swirl of pesto brings out the flavors even more, making this soup feel special without much extra effort.

3. Cheesy Tortellini Bake

Ingredients 📃

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced

• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

• 1 unit mushroom stock concentrate

• 4 tablespoons cream cheese

• 1.5 ounces tomato paste

• 9 ounces cheese tortellini

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons butter

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat the broiler to high. Peel and mince the garlic, then dice the Roma tomatoes.

2. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and set aside.

3. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a medium ovenproof pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of chili flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. 

4. Add the diced tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.

5. Pour in 1 cup of water, then add the mushroom stock concentrate and cream cheese. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper.

6. Add the tortellini to the sauce and cook, stirring, for 4-6 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the tortellini are tender. If the sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash of water. Turn off the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.

7. If your pan isn’t ovenproof, transfer the tortellini mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the panko-Parmesan topping evenly over the tortellini. Broil for 2-4 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, until the panko is golden brown. 

8. Garnish with extra chili flakes if desired, and serve warm.

Overview 🕵️

This is inspired by a similar dish from HelloFresh (pictured above). It’s a fantastic one-pan meal. It brings cozy, comforting flavors together with minimal cleanup. The creamy, cheesy sauce and crispy panko topping make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

It's a simple recipe with a big, satisfying taste that’s perfect for family dinners. The dish is easy to prepare and tastes like something special. If you're looking for a meaty option, adding cooked sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken can boost the protein content and make it even more filling.

Feel free to customize the dish to your preferences. With just a few steps, you can create a flavorful and comforting meal that everyone will love. Plus, the minimal cleanup means you’ll have more time to relax afterward.

4. Brown Butter Tortellini

Ingredients 📃

• 18 ounces cheese tortellini

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.

2. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Let the butter cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to bubble and turns a golden brown color. You'll notice a nutty aroma.

3. Add the minced garlic to the butter and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

4. Stir in the fresh sage leaves and cook for 1-2 minutes, letting them crisp up and infuse the butter with flavor.

5. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta in the brown butter sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

7. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. 

Overview 🕵️

Brown Butter and Sage Tortellini is a simple, delicious dish with a rich, aromatic sauce. The combination of butter, garlic, and sage creates a flavorful base that pairs perfectly with cheese tortellini. If you don’t have fresh sage, you can use 3 teaspoons of dried, crumbled sage instead.

This dish is great for a quick midweek dinner. It’s easy to make with minimal ingredients, yet feels comforting and special. The brown butter sauce adds a warm, indulgent flavor that makes the meal feel like a treat.

You can easily adapt this recipe by adding extra vegetables like spinach, peas, or roasted tomatoes. The sauce pairs well with just about any veggie, making it a flexible option to suit different tastes or what’s available in your kitchen.

5. Tortellini Gratin

Ingredients 📃

• 18 oz cheese tortellini

• 16 oz ground beef

• 2 boxes crushed tomatoes

• 1 yellow onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ oz fresh basil, chopped

• 2 tablespoons sour cream

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 5 oz spinach, chopped

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 4 teaspoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C).

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

3. Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion softens. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and fresh basil. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in the sour cream and remove from heat.

5. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the sauce and mix until well combined. Stir in the chopped spinach. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish (about 9x9 inches).

6. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the tortellini.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Overview 🕵️

This Tortellini Gratin is a simple, child-friendly recipe that's perfect for family dinners. The cheesy tortellini and savory beef sauce come together in a way that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze.

You can easily customize this recipe by adding extra veggies like diced bell peppers or zucchini for a boost of nutrition. It's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without compromising on taste.

With just a few easy steps, this dish is quick to put together. This makes it ideal for busy nights when you need a comforting meal without too much fuss.

6. Tortellini Bites

Ingredients 📃

• 1 (9-ounce) package of store-bought cheese tortellini

• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as basil, oregano, or thyme)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and let cool slightly.

3. In a shallow bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and dried herbs. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Place the beaten eggs in a separate shallow bowl.

5. Dip each tortellini in the beaten egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the crumbs stick.

6. Place the coated tortellini on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.

7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tortellini bites are golden and crispy.

8. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Overview 🕵️

Tortellini Bites make a great appetizer or party snack. With their crispy, cheesy coating and easy-to-make recipe, they're great for families with young children. They’re quick to prepare, so they work well for both planned gatherings and impromptu snacks.

These bite-sized tortellini are kid-friendly and simple to serve with a side of marinara or ranch for dipping. They’re a fun, crowd-pleasing option that everyone can enjoy.

7. Tortellini Alfredo

Ingredients 📃

• 18 oz cheese tortelloni

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortelloni and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes. Add the frozen peas to the pot during the last minute of cooking. Drain the tortellini and peas, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

3. Add the cooked tortellini and peas to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the tortelloni is coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Divide the tortellini Alfredo with peas between plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Overview 🕵️

This recipe is inspired by the Dinnerly. Dinnerly is known for its simple, family-friendly meals. It’s a great option for busy families looking for quick, delicious dinners. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our full guide to easy recipes.

Tortellini Alfredo with Peas is a simple, kid-friendly dish that comes together in no time. The creamy Alfredo sauce is a perfect complement to the cheese-filled tortelloni, and the peas add a touch of sweetness and texture. It’s an easy dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

For a nutritious twist, you can easily add extra veggies like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini. This recipe is versatile and quick, making it a great option for busy nights when you want something both delicious and easy to prepare.

8. Tortellini Bolognese

Ingredients 📃

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/2 large sweet onion, diced

• 1 large carrot, diced

• 1 rib celery, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 2 cups passata (or crushed tomatoes)

• 1/4 cup tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 lb tortellini (any variety)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-6 minutes.

4. Stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes, letting the spices cook for about 1 minute.

5. Add the passata and tomato paste to the skillet, stirring to combine. Season with sea salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickening.

6. Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

7. Once the sauce is ready, add the fresh basil and 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined.

8. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, gently tossing it in the Bolognese sauce until evenly coated.

9. Serve with the remaining Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.

Overview 🕵️

This Tortellini Bolognese is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a family. The rich Bolognese sauce, combined with tender tortellini and fresh Parmesan, makes it a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.

The sauce has a thick, cozy texture that clings to the pasta, but you can add a bit of broth if you prefer a thinner consistency. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a complete and delicious dinner.

FAQ

What does tortellini go well with?

Tortellini pairs well with a variety of sauces, including creamy Alfredo, pesto, tomato-based marinara, and even a hearty mushroom sauce. You can also enjoy it with side dishes like sautéed vegetables, spinach, or a light salad​.

How is tortellini traditionally served?

Traditionally, tortellini is served in a broth or with a rich sauce, like cream-based Alfredo or tomato sauce. It's also often enjoyed in soups or as part of a larger pasta dish​.

Do you eat tortellini without sauce?

While tortellini is typically served with sauce, you can also enjoy it plain, especially if it’s stuffed with flavorful fillings. In such cases, you might want to toss it with a bit of olive oil, butter, or fresh herbs​.

Can you cook tortellini in sauce instead of water?

Yes, you can cook tortellini directly in sauce. This method allows the pasta to absorb some of the sauce’s flavors, making the dish richer. However, you should still ensure that the tortellini cooks thoroughly by simmering gently​.

Is tortellini filled with anything?

Yes, tortellini is typically filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables, offering a variety of flavor combinations. Common fillings include ricotta, spinach, and meats like chicken or pork​.