Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience on busy nights? Look no further! Frozen tortellini is a pantry staple that can be transformed into a delicious meal with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and indulgent or light and refreshing, we’ve got 20 easy frozen tortellini recipes to spice up your dinner routine.
From classic combinations like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini and Tortellini Alfredo Bake, to innovative twists like Pesto Tortellini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Tortellini Taco Bake, we’ve curated a list of mouthwatering dishes that are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and turn your busy nights into unforgettable meals!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
Add a rich and satisfying twist to your pasta night with this creamy garlic parmesan tortellini recipe. Tender cheese-filled tortellini are smothered in a decadent sauce made with roasted garlic, heavy cream, and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 3 cloves garlic, roasted (see note)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add roasted garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked tortellini with garlic sauce, tossing to coat. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this simple, one-pan dish that combines tender tortellini, savory sausage, and fresh spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package (9 oz) cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add tortellini, spinach, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and olive oil. Stir to combine.
5. Cover skillet with aluminum foil and transfer to preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tortellini are cooked through and sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini Alfredo Bake
Tortellini Alfredo Bake: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Alfredo sauce with the simplicity of a casserole, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tortellini (cheese-filled or spinach-and-cheese)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth.
4. Combine cooked tortellini with Alfredo sauce in the skillet; toss to coat.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle with parsley.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the comforting warmth of tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini (12 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and tortellini. Simmer until the pasta is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Tortellini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This classic Italian dish gets a flavorful boost from the addition of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a harmonious balance of creamy and tangy. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can transport your taste buds to the Tuscan countryside.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the pesto sauce and cooked tortellini. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Tortellini Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the creamy richness of cheese with the tender bite of tortellini, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (14.5 oz) of cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 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 separate bowl, combine mozzarella, cheddar, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked tortellini in an even layer.
5. Pour the cheese mixture evenly over the tortellini.
6. Dot the top with heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini Primavera with Lemon Butter Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant spring-inspired dish, featuring tender tortellini wrapped around a flavorful lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. If using wine, stir it in at this point.
6. Combine cooked tortellini with the vegetable mixture. Toss to coat with the lemon butter sauce.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tortellini in Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
A classic Italian dish that combines tender tortellini with a rich and flavorful creamy tomato basil sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 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 of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes (or canned crushed tomatoes) to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Stir in heavy cream, butter, and chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked tortellini and tomato sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Tortellini with Shrimp
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic butter and succulent shrimp with tender tortellini, creating a dish that is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Add white wine and heavy cream to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine reserved pasta water with garlic butter sauce and stir to combine.
6. Toss cooked tortellini with garlic butter sauce and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini Caprese Salad
A refreshing twist on the classic caprese salad, this recipe adds a delightful Italian touch by incorporating cheese-filled tortellini. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin sheets
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomato-mozzarella mixture and toss gently.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss again to combine.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time for tortellini)
Bacon and Pea Tortellini Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy recipe that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, sweet peas, and tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup (115g) frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add crumbled bacon and cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
3. Add frozen peas to the skillet and cook until thawed and tender.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked tortellini, bacon-pea mixture, and toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the classic Italian dish, tortellini, with a medley of colorful vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add bell pepper and mixed vegetables. Cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Stir in cooked tortellini, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tortellini Arrabbiata
A classic Italian dish gets a bold twist with the addition of spicy arrabbiata sauce and crispy prosciutto. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 6 slices prosciutto, chopped
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, parsley, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Toss cooked tortellini with arrabbiata sauce. Top with chopped prosciutto.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tortellini with Mushroom Cream Sauce
A classic Italian dish that combines the tender folds of tortellini with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked tortellini with mushroom cream sauce and toss to combine.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tortellini and Meatball Skillet
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty skillet dish, featuring cheese-filled tortellini, juicy meatballs, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup frozen tortellini
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Arrange the frozen tortellini on top of the meat sauce.
6. Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tortellini Carbonara with Pancetta
A classic Italian dish gets a rich and creamy twist with the addition of pancetta. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz tortellini
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black 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, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the pancetta and toss to combine.
6. Pour in the egg mixture and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the eggs are cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini with Brown Butter and Sage
Tortellini with Brown Butter and Sage Recipe
A classic Italian dish gets a rich and savory twist with the addition of brown butter and crispy sage leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 package tortellini (cheese-filled or your preferred filling)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cups fresh sage leaves
– Salt 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 medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture turns golden brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in reserved pasta water to create a smooth sauce.
4. In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add sage leaves in batches, cooking until crispy and fragrant (about 30 seconds per batch). Drain on paper towels.
5. Combine cooked tortellini and brown butter sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with crispy sage leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tortellini Taco Bake
This recipe combines the comfort of tortellini with the bold flavors of tacos, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 lb ground beef, browned and drained
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crushed Fritos
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine ground beef, taco seasoning, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Bring to a simmer and cook until heated through.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked tortellini in the bottom. Top with the beef mixture, then sprinkle with shredded cheese and crushed Fritos.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Savor the flavors of Italy with this creamy and vibrant tortellini dish. This recipe combines the richness of cheese-filled pasta with the sweet and smoky essence of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss bell peppers with garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred and blistered.
4. Let cool, then peel off skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
5. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
6. In a saucepan, combine roasted red peppers, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until smooth and creamy.
7. Combine cooked tortellini with roasted red pepper sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tortellini and Broccoli in Garlic Olive Oil
Quickly elevate a weeknight dinner with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tortellini
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic and broccoli. If the pasta seems dry, add some reserved pasta water.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with these 20 easy frozen tortellini recipes perfect for busy nights. From creamy garlic parmesan to pesto-filled sun-dried tomato, and from classic alfredo to spicy arrabbiata, there’s something for everyone. Try one-pan wonders like sausage and spinach or meatball skillet, or go the comfort food route with cheesy casseroles and rich sauces. Even veggie lovers will find plenty of options, from broccoli in garlic olive oil to primavera with lemon butter sauce. Elevate your meal prep game with these quick and delicious tortellini recipes!
