Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy brown butter tortellini topped with garlic butter sauce and grated cheese on a plate

Creamy Brown Butter Tortellini with Garlic & Cheese Sauce


  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Creamy Brown Butter Tortellini with Garlic & Cheese Sauce combines nutty brown butter, aromatic garlic, and rich cheese to coat tender cheese tortellini in a luxurious sauce. This easy stovetop dish brings restaurant quality to your home kitchen in under 30 minutes. Crisp sage leaves and a hint of nutmeg elevate the flavor, while fresh herbs and lemon zest brighten each bite. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers indulgent Butter Pasta magic using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh cheese tortellini
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 12 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh sage or thyme leaves (optional)
  • Lemon zest, for garnish
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

  • Instructions

    1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.

    2. Add cheese tortellini and cook until al dente, 2 to 3 minutes for fresh or 4 to 5 minutes for frozen. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.

    3. While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add unsalted butter.

    4. Swirl butter as it melts and watch for foam to subside and milk solids to turn golden brown, about 4 minutes.

    5. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn.

    6. Reduce heat to low and slowly pour in heavy cream, whisking until combined and smooth.

    7. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg; stir until sauce thickens slightly, about 1 minute.

    8. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if sauce is too thick.

    9. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the pasta and stir gently until melted and sauce is creamy.

    10. Taste and adjust seasoning; finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest and chopped parsley.

    11. Divide tortellini among bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs, and serve immediately.

    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Category: main course
    • Method: stovetop
    • Cuisine: italian

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 cup

    Keywords: creamy brown butter tortellini, garlic and cheese sauce, tortellini with butter, butter pasta, brown butter sauce, tortellini recipes