Looking for a taste of Italy in every bite? Look no further! Homemade tortellini are a staple of Italian cuisine, and when made with love and care, they can be truly irresistible. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and authentic Italian recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of homemade tortellini. From classic cheese-filled varieties to creative combinations featuring spinach, ricotta, pumpkin, and more, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure. So grab your pasta machine, get ready to get hands-on, and let’s dive into the world of homemade tortellini!
Classic Cheese-Filled Homemade Tortellini
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this classic cheese-filled tortellini recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Filling Ingredients:
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes or until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll out each part into a thin sheet.
5. Prepare the filling by combining ricotta, mozzarella, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Cut circles of dough (about 3 inches in diameter).
7. Place 1 tablespoon of cheese filling in the center of each circle.
8. Fold the dough over the filling to form a tortellini shape. Seal edges with a fork.
9. Place filled tortellini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Tortellini
A classic Italian dish gets a flavorful twist with this spinach and ricotta stuffed tortellini recipe. With its creamy filling and tender pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well until smooth.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stuff each tortellini with the spinach-ricotta mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Place stuffed tortellini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortellini are heated through.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Tortellini in Creamy Alfredo Sauce
This classic Italian dish is a comforting favorite that’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle cooking, you’ll be enjoying tender tortellini wrapped in rich, creamy alfredo sauce in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh pasta dough (or homemade)
– 1 cup of ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pasta dough to your desired thickness and cut into circles.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each pasta circle.
5. Fold the pasta over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Cook tortellini in boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. In a separate pan, melt butter and cream over medium heat. Stir in cooked tortellini and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Tortellini with Brown Butter
Elevate your pasta game with this autumnal take on tortellini. The combination of roasted pumpkin, earthy sage, and nutty brown butter creates a rich and comforting dish perfect for cozying up on a chilly fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh tortellini
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, garlic, and salt. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
5. Add roasted pumpkin and chopped sage to the brown butter. Toss to combine.
6. Combine cooked tortellini with the pumpkin-sage mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Tortellini Soup
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting soup that combines the flavors of chicken, mushrooms, and cheese-filled tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 cheese-filled tortellini
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken and mushrooms in a little oil until browned.
2. Add the broth, diced tomatoes, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Add the tortellini and cook for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Tortellini with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
Experience the simplicity and flavor of homemade pasta with this delightful recipe. Freshly made tortellini filled with ricotta and spinach, served with a vibrant pesto sauce and sweet cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients (ricotta cheese, chopped fresh spinach)
– Pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Combine flour, eggs, and salt to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
2. Roll out the dough to desired thickness. Cut into squares (about 3 inches per side).
3. Place a spoonful of ricotta filling in center of each square. Fold corners to form a triangle, pressing edges to seal.
4. Cook tortellini in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float. Drain and serve with pesto sauce and cherry tomatoes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Three-Cheese Tortellini Bake
This recipe combines the flavors of creamy cheese, tender tortellini, and savory sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese.
4. Add cooked tortellini, diced tomatoes, and olive oil to the cheese mixture. Toss until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Stuffed Tortellini with Garlic Butter Sauce
Lobster Stuffed Tortellini with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent lobster, tender tortellini, and a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (cooked and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Stir in lobster meat, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, breaking up any large chunks of lobster.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring to combine with lobster mixture.
5. Serve tortellini with garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Tortellini Primavera
Experience the simplicity of spring with this colorful and flavorful tortellini primavera recipe, featuring fresh vegetables and homemade pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (16 oz) wonton wrappers or homemade pasta dough
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as snap peas, carrots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the wonton wrappers according to package instructions or roll out homemade pasta dough to desired thickness.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
4. Add mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender (5-7 minutes).
5. Combine cooked vegetables with chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions or cook homemade pasta in boiling water for 3-5 minutes.
7. Toss cooked tortellini with vegetable mixture. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Parmesan Filled Tortellini
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and savory dish featuring beef and Parmesan filled tortellini. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or as an impressive party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the olive oil, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Stuff each tortellini with the beef mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the tortellini.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Tortellini with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This recipe combines the classic Italian dish of tortellini with a sweet and smoky roasted red pepper sauce, creating a unique and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients (e.g. ricotta, Parmesan, spinach)
– Roasted Red Pepper Sauce ingredients:
+ 4 red bell peppers
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1/4 cup olive oil
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to desired thickness and cut into squares.
4. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each square. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or circle shape.
5. Boil tortellini in salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. While tortellini cook, roast red bell peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and drizzling with olive oil. Roast at 375°F for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered.
7. Remove from oven and peel off skin. Blend roasted peppers with garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve tortellini with roasted red pepper sauce and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Vegetable Medley Tortellini Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry recipe that combines the goodness of vegetables with the comfort of tortellini. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
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.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Stir in cooked tortellini, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Butter
Tortellini is a beloved Italian dish that typically consists of stuffed pasta rings filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. In this recipe, we’ll elevate the classic by adding a burst of citrusy flavor and richness with a lemon garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
+ 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
+ 1 egg, beaten
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon garlic butter sauce:
+ 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking water: 4-6 cups
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large pot of salted water for boiling.
2. In a bowl, mix together ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a tight seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook tortellini in boiling water for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and lemon juice; cook for 1 minute.
8. Toss cooked tortellini with lemon garlic butter sauce and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Style Tortellini Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the flavors of Italy with the simplicity of a classic Caprese salad. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together in a delightful union.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil.
3. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top, tossing gently to combine.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss again to distribute ingredients evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (cooking tortellini)
Homemade Tortellini with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Savor the taste of Italy with this homemade tortellini recipe, served with a rich and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley)
– Sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
– Heavy cream
– Butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, salt, and warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a thin sheet.
4. Cut out circles of pasta using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle, then fold the pasta over to form a tortellino shape.
6. Cook tortellini in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. In a separate saucepan, combine sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Tortellini
Elevate your pasta game with this indulgent twist on traditional tortellini. This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp, the richness of crab, and the creaminess of parmesan cheese, all wrapped up in a delicate pasta package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh tortellini
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup cooked and chilled shrimp, diced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
4. Stir in crab meat, shrimp, and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each cooked tortellini with the seafood mixture.
6. Place stuffed tortellini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Homemade Tortellini with Wild Mushroom Ragout
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this homemade tortellini recipe, paired with a savory wild mushroom ragout. This dish is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
For the tortellini:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients (e.g., ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, parsley)
For the ragout:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (e.g., chanterelle, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Make the tortellini dough according to package instructions or a recipe of your choice.
2. Prepare the ragout by sautéing the onion, mushrooms, and garlic in olive oil until tender. Add white wine and chicken broth; simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Assemble the tortellini by placing a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle, then folding and sealing the edges.
4. Cook the tortellini in boiling water for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain and serve with the wild mushroom ragout.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese Tortellini with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and tangy recipe, featuring the rich flavors of goat cheese and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 tortellini (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see note)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together goat cheese, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Add the cooked tortellini to the goat cheese mixture and toss to coat.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the balsamic glaze and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Toss the tortellini with the balsamic glaze, ensuring all pasta is coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of homemade tortellini making with these 18 delicious and authentic Italian recipes. From classic cheese-filled to innovative combinations like pumpkin and sage, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Learn how to make creamy Alfredo sauce or brown butter, and indulge in soups, salads, and bakes featuring these stuffed pasta rings. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, these mouthwatering recipes will inspire you to create your own unique tortellini creations.
