Garlic Butter Cheese Tortellini 🧄🧀

Elevate your pasta game with this comforting and indulgent Garlic Butter Cheese Tortellini. This dish is aromatic, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends. Tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce and finished with fresh herbs, it’s an irresistible weeknight treat!

Ingredients

For the tortellini

• 1 package (15 oz) frozen cheese tortellini (or fresh if available)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste

For the garlic butter sauce

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tortellini according to package instructions until tender. Usually about 3–5 minutes for frozen or 1-2 minutes for fresh. Drain and set aside.

   🥄 Remember to taste-test! Overcooked tortellini can become mushy, so keep an eye on the timing.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring continuously to prevent burning.

3. Combine and Toss: Add the drained tortellini to the garlic butter sauce, tossing gently until well coated. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, basil, lemon zest, and season with freshly cracked black pepper. Toss until everything is evenly combined.

   🍋 The lemon zest adds a bright note that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the butter and cheese.

4. Serve: Plate the tortellini and garnish with extra Parmesan and a few sprigs of chopped herbs. Enjoy while hot!

   🧂 Feel free to drizzle with a touch of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor right before serving!

Variations

• Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier dish.
• Vegetable Boost: Mix in some sautéed spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Vegan: Substitute dairy butter with vegan butter and use plant-based tortellini and cheese to keep it dairy-free.
• Spice it Up: For a bolder flavor, add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce after cooking the garlic for an enhanced depth.

This Garlic Butter Cheese Tortellini is not only simple to prepare but incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect dish to share with family and friends! Enjoy! 🍝✨