Looking for quick and delicious dinner ideas that can be ready in no time? Look no further! Frozen tortellini is a staple in many kitchens, and when paired with the right ingredients and cooking techniques, it can become a meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering frozen tortellini recipes that are perfect for busy nights. From creamy sauces to flavorful sautés, these recipes will inspire you to try new things and elevate your cooking game.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like Tortellini Alfredo with Broccoli or something more adventurous like Spicy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup, we’ve got you covered. And the best part? These recipes are all easy to make and require minimal prep time, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into these 20 delicious frozen tortellini recipes and start cooking!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting dish featuring tender tortellini, garlic butter, and a blend of creamy cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini (about 12 oz)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
4. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked tortellini, cream, and reserved pasta water. Toss to coat.
5. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the pasta and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tortellini Alfredo with Broccoli
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this classic dish, where tender tortellini meet a decadent Alfredo sauce and steamed broccoli. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (125ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups broccoli florets
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked tortellini and broccoli to the sauce. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup
This creamy soup combines the flavors of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and spicy kick from red pepper flakes, all wrapped up with tender tortellini. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8-10 tortellini (cheese or vegetable-filled)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
4. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and add to the soup.
5. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Tortellini Bake with Spinach
A comforting and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of cheese, pasta, and spinach. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked tortellini, wilted spinach, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Toss until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Tortellini with Shrimp
Brighten up your pasta dish with this citrusy and creamy recipe that combines the flavors of lemon, butter, and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. grated lemon zest
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice, zest, and shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Combine reserved pasta water with lemon-butter mixture and stir to combine.
5. Toss cooked tortellini in the lemon-butter sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini Pesto Pasta Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the flavors of Italy with a twist – tortellini, creamy pesto sauce, and crunchy veggies. Perfect for potlucks or picnics!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and Kalamata olives.
3. Drizzle basil pesto over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese (if using) on top for extra flavor.
Cooking Time:
– Tortellini cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: approximately 23 minutes
One-Pan Tortellini with Sausage and Peppers
This hearty one-pan dish combines the flavors of sausage, peppers, onions, and cheese-filled tortellini for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 package (9-10 oz) cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
5. Arrange tortellini on top of sausage mixture. Cover skillet with lid or foil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until tortellini are cooked through and cheese is melted.
7. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese; return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini Carbonara with Bacon
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy and savory tortellini dish, elevated by crispy bacon and a runny egg.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and stir to combine with remaining fat. Bring to a simmer.
4. Crack in eggs one at a time, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to coat with egg mixture. If necessary, add some reserved pasta cooking liquid to achieve desired consistency.
6. Divide among plates and top with crispy bacon. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Tortellini: 8-10 minutes
– Bacon: 5-7 minutes
– Total preparation time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Tortellini
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and vibrant dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and wilted spinach with cheese-filled tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach leaves. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Drain the cooked tortellini and add to the skillet with the tomato-spinach mixture. Toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender tortellini with a decadent mushroom sauce, all in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring sauce to a simmer and let reduce slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to coat with mushroom sauce. If necessary, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Tortellini with Roasted Vegetables
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this easy and satisfying recipe, featuring garlic butter tortellini tossed with a medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the sliced vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve the garlic butter tortellini with the roasted vegetables. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini Minestrone Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of Italy with the ease of a one-pot meal. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup tortellini
– 1 cup frozen spinach
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, tortellini, spinach, and mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until tortellini are cooked through.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tortellini Caprese with Fresh Mozzarella
A classic Italian dish that combines the simplicity of fresh mozzarella and cherry tomatoes with the richness of tortellini, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large, ripe tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Arrange the cooked tortellini on a platter or individual plates.
5. Top with the tomato mixture, then place mozzarella slices on top.
6. Sprinkle with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini with Brown Butter and Sage
This recipe elevates classic tortellini to new heights by combining the pasta with a rich, nutty brown butter sauce infused with the earthy flavor of sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped sage leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to coat with the brown butter sauce. If necessary, add some reserved pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini Primavera with Seasonal Veggies
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and delicious tortellini primavera recipe, featuring a medley of seasonal vegetables. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed seasonal veggies (such as snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. Add mixed veggies and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add vegetable broth, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Tortellini with Marinara and Cheese
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of Italy with a creamy twist. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9 oz) package tortellini
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked tortellini in the bottom.
5. Pour the marinara sauce over the tortellini, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining tortellini, then the marinara sauce, and finally the remaining mozzarella cheese.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini in Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful recipe, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup vodka (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and vodka (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer sauce for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
6. Combine cooked tortellini with reserved pasta water and add to the skillet. Toss to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini with Garlicky Olive Oil and Chili Flakes
This recipe combines the flavors of garlic, chili flakes, and creamy olive oil to create a delicious and spicy sauce for cheese-filled tortellini. Perfect as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cheese-filled tortellini
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Add chili flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the reserved pasta cooking liquid to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlicky oil mixture.
5. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to coat with the spicy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini and Meatballs in Red Sauce
Tortellini and Meatballs in Red Sauce is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender tortellini, flavorful meatballs, and rich red sauce for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, and garlic. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large saucepan, heat crushed tomatoes over medium-low heat. Add red wine (if using) and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Add meatballs to the saucepan and let them simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes.
7. Serve tortellini with meatballs and sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tortellini with Roasted Garlic and Spinach
This recipe combines the creamy richness of tortellini with the pungent sweetness of roasted garlic and the earthy freshness of spinach, making for a delightful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 heads of garlic
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of fresh spinach leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the roasted garlic and mash with a fork. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked tortellini and garlic-spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with these 20 mouth-watering frozen tortellini recipes! From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy tomato basil soup, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at cheesy tortellini bake with spinach, or go light with lemon butter tortellini and shrimp. If you’re short on time, whip up a one-pan tortellini with sausage and peppers. With these quick and easy recipes, you’ll be enjoying delicious meals in no time. Whether you like it classic and comforting or bold and flavorful, there’s a recipe to suit your taste buds.
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