Creamy Stovetop Cheese Tortellini

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Cheesy tortellini tossed in a creamy garlic and herb sauce is an easy-to-make recipe that will complement any meal! Creamy Stovetop Cheese Tortellini is always a favorite whether served as a hearty main dish or a side for steak, chicken, or pork.

You are in for a treat with this creamy, cheesy, garlicky, easy-to-make recipe. It’s kind of like macaroni and cheese meets an Italian, and they become best friends.

Creamy Stovetop Cheese Tortellini is crazy delicious and simple to make with a store-bought shortcut of packaged cheese pasta. I love recipes that do double duty, and this one not only makes a terrific side, but is also a great main dish. And let’s not forget all the ways you can customize it with the addition of veggies or leftover chicken, shrimp, or beef.

What Is Tortellini?

Tortellini is a type of pasta originally from the Emilia region in Italy. It’s shaped like a small, round hat and traditionally filled with either meat or cheese.

Tortellini can be used in many different recipes like my BLT Tortellini Pasta Salad, and Chicken and Cheese Tortellini Soup.

• Packaged Cheese Tortellini Pasta – you can find it in the refrigerated cheese section in the grocery store.
• Unsalted Butter
• Garlic Cloves – mince or press your own garlic if possible.
• Dried Thyme – you can substitute basil or Italian seasoning.
• Fresh Parsley – for the sauce and for garnish for a tremendous fresh pop of flavor.
• Kosher Salt and Fresh Cracked Pepper
• Half and Half – heavy whipping cream or whole milk can also be used.
• Parmesan Cheese – grate your own cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Non-stick or Cast Iron Skillet

• Cook the pasta in salted boiling water.
• Make the sauce by melting the butter and cooking the garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper then adding in the half-and-half and Parmesan.
• Add the tortellini and pasta water to bring the sauce together. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, then dig in!

• The recipe has just a few ingredients, so use the best you can get. Good quality tortellini and fresh parsley will make all the difference!
• Cook the tortellini, al dente, meaning firm when bitten. The pasta will continue to cook in the sauce, so you don’t want it overdone.
• Make sure to save the pasta water to use in making the sauce.

How To Serve As A Side Dish

Creamy Stovetop Cheese Tortellini is terrific served alongside:

• Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
• Copycat Honey Baked Ham
• Easy London Broil
• Air Fryer Chicken Legs
• The Best Roasted Pork Tenderloin

I think it is fun to get creative with a recipe. Here are a few ideas for customizing this dish to your liking:

• Add Italian sausage or ground turkey for a hearty main dish.
• Carrots, peas, green beans, onions, and celery are great to add for a pasta primavera vibe.
• Make the cheese sauce even “cheesier” with the addition of shredded sharp cheddar cheese or mozzarella.
• Give it a spicy kick with a big pinch of black pepper and red pepper flakes.
• Toss in kale, spinach, and chopped tomato for a healthy twist.

How To Store And Reheat

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a tablespoon or two of water or milk to loosen the sauce.