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Best Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce for Tortellini

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  • Author: saadia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Pasta Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A rich, creamy garlic butter sauce perfect for tossing with tortellini, combining savory garlic, luscious butter, and cream for an indulgent pasta experience.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until foamy.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown.
  4. Pour in heavy cream, stir to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Reduce heat and whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using; adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to fully coat with sauce.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for cream, though sauce will be thinner.
  • Add cooked spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently over low heat.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup sauce + 1 cup cooked tortellini
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 17 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg