If you’re craving a comforting, creamy pasta that feels like a warm hug from the inside, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli Recipe. The tender cheese tortellini paired with vibrant, slightly crisp broccoli creates a perfect balance of texture. Wrapped up in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce that’s both rich and flavorful, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to make something truly special. It’s quick, satisfying, and every bite tastes like a little Italian feast in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to create this irresistible dish. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s the creamy cheese tortellini delivering comforting softness, the broccoli adding a fresh pop of green and crunch, or the garlic and Parmesan building that deeply savory sauce you can’t get enough of.
- 12 oz cheese tortellini: Fresh or refrigerated works beautifully for a tender, cheesy base.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh gives a crisp bite; frozen is super convenient and just as tasty.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates that rich, silky foundation for your sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and subtle spice.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A bold, nutty component that melts into creamy perfection.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds lusciousness and smooth texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle warmth and complexity.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little kick.
- 2 tablespoons pasta water (reserved): The secret to a perfectly silky sauce that clings to every tortellini.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to finish.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook Tortellini and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your cheese tortellini and broccoli florets together; this multitasking step ensures both cook evenly and remain tender but not mushy. Follow the tortellini package directions—usually around 4 to 5 minutes is perfect. Don’t forget to scoop out 2 tablespoons of that starchy pasta water before draining; it’s pure magic for your sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter
While the pasta and broccoli cook, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes. You want it fragrant and golden but never browned, because that caramelization can turn bitter and overpower your delicate sauce.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Lower your heat and stir in the heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Slowly mix in the reserved pasta water, which helps bind everything together, creating a glossy, smooth sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of tortellini and broccoli.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the drained tortellini and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat evenly in the sauce. Allow it to cook an extra 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens just enough to be indulgently creamy without being heavy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once off the heat, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top along with a little extra Parmesan if you like, to brighten and finish the dish with a fresh, inviting look.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh parsley really elevates the dish by adding not just color, but a hint of herbaceous brightness that perfectly complements the richness. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for anyone who loves that sharp, salty punch.
Side Dishes
This creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli Recipe feels like a full meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some warm garlic bread takes things to the next level. A light citrus vinaigrette on the side will cut through the creaminess and refresh your palate brilliantly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style in a large shallow bowl for a cozy, shareable meal. For a dinner party touch, plate individual portions with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of chili flakes to personalize each plate’s flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftovers in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated. The flavors actually meld and improve overnight, making it a delicious lunch or dinner ready to go the next day. Just remember to keep the garnish separate to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen if necessary. Place in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months for optimal taste. Defrost gently in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure creamy consistency. Microwaving works too—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient option and works great. Just add it directly to the boiling water with your tortellini and cook as usual. It might be slightly softer than fresh but still delicious.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan or dairy-free?
You can swap out butter for olive oil, use dairy-free cream alternatives, and replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. The flavors will shift slightly, but it still makes a tasty, comforting meal.
How can I add protein to the Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli Recipe?
Grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms are excellent choices to boost protein content without overwhelming the flavors. Simply cook separately and toss in during the last step before serving.
What type of tortellini should I use?
Fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini works best here for tender texture and creamy filling. If using frozen tortellini, just adjust the cooking time according to the package, and the recipe will come out perfectly.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan ahead to save time. Even cooking the tortellini and broccoli in advance is possible—just reheat gently with the sauce when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli Recipe quickly became one of my favorite go-to meals because it’s effortlessly delicious, comforting, and well-balanced. Whether you need a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress without stress, this creamy, garlicky pasta is sure to win hearts. Give it a try—I’m confident you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and savory Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli recipe that combines tender cheese tortellini and fresh broccoli florets in a rich Parmesan and garlic-infused sauce. This quick stovetop dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons pasta water (reserved)
Garnish
- chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook tortellini and broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and broccoli florets and cook according to the tortellini package instructions, usually 4–5 minutes, until both are tender. Reserve 2 tablespoons of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Prepare garlic butter sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Make creamy Parmesan sauce: Lower the stove heat and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Add the reserved pasta water and stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
- Toss tortellini and broccoli in sauce: Add the drained tortellini and broccoli to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta and vegetables evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- You can add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein.
- Frozen broccoli is a convenient substitute; just add it directly to the boiling water with the tortellini.
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Reserve some pasta water to help adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
