Best Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce for Tortellini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce is the ultimate indulgence for tortellini lovers. Rich, velvety, and bursting with garlicky flavor, it clings perfectly to every bite of pasta. Whether you’re serving cheese-filled, spinach, or meat tortellini, this sauce elevates the dish into a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort. It’s comforting, versatile, and sure to become a weeknight favorite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted buttergarlic clovesheavy creamParmesan cheesecream cheesemilkItalian seasoningparsleypeppersalt

directions

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Stir in the cream cheese and mix until melted and smooth.

Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously to combine.

Add grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens.

Toss in the cooked tortellini and stir to coat evenly in the sauce.

Garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 portions.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal.

Use spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor.

Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce.

Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Try different cheeses like Romano or Asiago for a flavor twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Yes, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.

What type of tortellini works best?

Any variety—cheese, meat, or spinach—pairs well with this sauce.

Can I freeze the sauce?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Just be aware the texture might change slightly upon reheating.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, but confirm all ingredients, especially tortellini, are gluten-free.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can try using plant-based butter, milk, and cheese substitutes, though flavor and texture will vary.

Why is my sauce too thick?

Add a splash of milk or pasta water to thin it out.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, it scales well for larger batches.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can omit it or replace with extra Parmesan for a slightly different texture.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli work beautifully.

Do I need to use fresh Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has superior flavor, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

The Best Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce for Tortellini is a quick, flavorful way to transform simple pasta into a comforting, gourmet dish. With its rich texture and robust garlic flavor, it’s ideal for family dinners, date nights, or even a solo treat. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular in your pasta rotation.

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