Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for speed when it comes to weeknight meals? Look no further! Frozen tortellini can be a lifesaver for busy home cooks. With their convenient shelf life and versatility, these cheese-filled pockets are the perfect foundation for a variety of delicious recipes.
In this article, we’ll share 20 quick and easy frozen tortellini recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy sausage skillet, and from classic alfredo to Mediterranean-inspired creations, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a busy professional or a harried parent, these recipes will help you get a tasty meal on the table in no time.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
A classic Italian-inspired dish gets a creamy twist with the addition of garlic and parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tortellini (cheese-filled)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 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.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with garlic. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drain cooked tortellini and add to the creamy sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Tomato Basil Tortellini
This recipe is a flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional pasta dishes, all cooked in one pan. With its mix of tender tortellini, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to release their juices.
5. Add tortellini and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they’re lightly browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the tortellini are cooked through.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Tortellini Bake
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy tortellini bake, packed with the flavors of spinach and artichoke.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté spinach and artichoke hearts in a little bit of oil until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange cooked tortellini in an even layer. Top with the spinach-artichoke mixture, followed by the cheese mixture.
6. Pour cream over the top, making sure all is well coated.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Butter Garlic Tortellini
Brighten up your pasta night with this vibrant and flavorful Lemon Butter Garlic Tortellini recipe! Fresh lemon zest, melted butter, and pungent garlic come together in perfect harmony to elevate this classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package tortellini (cheese-filled or your preferred filling)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 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 until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked tortellini and the lemon butter sauce. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini Alfredo with Broccoli
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender tortellini pasta with a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, perfectly balanced by the crunch of steamed broccoli. A comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 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 water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Steam broccoli florets until tender.
7. Serve tortellini and broccoli hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Skillet
This hearty skillet recipe combines spicy sausage with cheese-filled tortellini, creating a flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen cheese tortellini
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add tortellini, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook, stirring occasionally, until tortellini are cooked through and liquid has thickened slightly, about 10-12 minutes.
6. If desired, sprinkle with cheddar cheese and let melt.
Cooking Time: About 20-22 minutes
Pesto Tortellini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A classic Italian combination gets a flavor boost from the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes. This easy and quick recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup (60ml) pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup (120g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp (30ml) 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 separate pan, 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 cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine the cooked tortellini and pesto-tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Tortellini Casserole
This comforting casserole is a satisfying twist on classic pasta bakes, packed with tender tortellini, rich cheese sauce, and crunchy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Combine cooked tortellini, tomato mixture, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage
Warm Up with Hearty Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage!
This comforting soup combines tender tortellini, flavorful Italian sausage, and aromatic vegetables for a satisfying meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12-16 cheese-filled tortellini
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Add the tortellini to the pot and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Bacon and Pea Tortellini Carbonara
A rich and creamy twist on the classic Italian dish, this Bacon and Pea Tortellini Carbonara combines the flavors of crispy bacon, sweet peas, and tender pasta in a deliciously simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) tortellini
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup (115g) frozen peas
– 3 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Parmesan cheese, for serving (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, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the frozen peas to the same skillet and cook until thawed and tender.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, butter, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add the cooked tortellini to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
6. Add the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
7. Combine the cooked peas and bacon with the pasta mixture and stir to combine.
8. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Tortellini
Roasted Red Pepper Tortellini: A flavorful and vibrant twist on traditional tortellini, this recipe combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the richness of creamy cheese and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely 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 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the skin is blistered and charred.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
4. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the roasted red pepper pieces and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve the tortellini with the roasted red pepper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Tortellini Primavera with Fresh Veggies
A springtime twist on a classic Italian dish, this Tortellini Primavera is a flavorful and colorful celebration of fresh vegetables. With a simple yet satisfying sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender (5-6 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in chicken broth and reserved pasta water. Bring sauce to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked tortellini, vegetable mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Tortellini
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Tortellini Recipe
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, served over tender tortellini for a decadent yet easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces cheese-filled tortellini
• 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.
2. In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet. Leave the garlic butter in the pan.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon butter. Pour in the heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet; toss to coat.
8. Serve the garlic butter shrimp and tortellini together. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini Caprese Salad
This classic Italian-inspired salad combines the creamy richness of tortellini with the bright flavors of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 large ball of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 1 tsp. salt
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and chopped basil.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, followed by balsamic glaze.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required; this salad is best served fresh!
Slow Cooker Tortellini with Marinara
Elevate your pasta game with this effortless slow cooker recipe that combines tender tortellini, rich marinara sauce, and a hint of Italian flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine tortellini, marinara sauce, olive oil, onion, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Tortellini with Brown Butter and Sage
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet elegant recipe that combines the rich flavors of brown butter, sage, and creamy cheese-filled tortellini. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped sage leaves. Season with salt to taste.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the brown butter sauce, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuscan Tortellini with White Beans
This hearty and flavorful pasta dish combines tender tortellini filled with ricotta and spinach, served in a rich sauce made with cannellini beans, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a main course for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 can (15 oz/425g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley
– 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 cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
3. Add cannellini beans, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in reserved pasta cooking water and chopped parsley.
5. Combine cooked tortellini with the bean sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Bake
Get ready to score a touchdown with this creamy, spicy, and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of Buffalo chicken wings with the comfort of tortellini pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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, combine shredded chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ranch dressing. Stir until coated.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the tortellini in the bottom. Top with the Buffalo chicken mixture, followed by half of the cheese mixture.
6. Repeat layers: tortellini, Buffalo chicken, and cheese.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini Stir-Fry with Soy Glaze
This quick and flavorful recipe combines tender tortellini with a savory soy glaze, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal. With its bold flavors and ease of preparation, this dish is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add broccoli; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour glaze over the vegetables and tortellini; stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Tortellini with Olives and Feta
This recipe combines the classic Italian pasta dish with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, featuring tender tortellini filled with ricotta and spinach, tossed in a savory sauce made with Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh tortellini
– 2 cups (475ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup (30g) pitted green Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup (115g) crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
– 1 tsp (5ml) dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in olives, feta cheese, and oregano.
5. Add cooked tortellini and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your quick meals with these 20 delicious frozen tortellini recipes! From classic combinations like creamy garlic parmesan and alfredo with broccoli, to more adventurous options like spicy sausage skillet and buffalo chicken bake, there’s something for everyone. Many of these recipes can be made in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy nights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy, creamy, or savory, these tortellini recipes are sure to hit the spot.
