Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both quick to make and utterly delicious, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I love how this simple dish transforms store-bought tortellini into something truly gourmet with just a few fresh ingredients.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen. It also shines during family gatherings, where everyone gathers around to enjoy a delightful meal. Plus, the combination of buttery flavors, earthy mushrooms, and crispy sage is simply irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love cheese tortellini! This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of butter, mushrooms, and crispy sage elevates this dish into a true gourmet experience.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Pre-cook the tortellini and sauté the veggies in advance for an even quicker dinner option!
- Comfort Food Classic: This dish brings all the cozy vibes we crave when it’s time to unwind at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to bring this tasty dish to life! You won’t need anything fancy—just quality staples from your local grocery store.
For the Pasta
- 1 (20 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage (chopped)
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.
- Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken or sautéed shrimp for an extra boost of protein.
- Go Veggie: Include spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
- Change Up the Cheese: Swap out parmesan for pecorino or even a vegan cheese alternative if desired.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a richer sauce.
How to Make Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling away, add your cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Cooking it right ensures that your pasta will be perfectly tender while retaining its delightful shape!
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the tortellini cooks, take a moment to prep your mushrooms and sage. Clean and slice your cremini mushrooms so they’re ready to sauté. Chop up your fresh sage as well; this herb will be key in creating that lovely crispy topping!
Step 3: Crisp Up the Sage
When there are about 6-7 minutes left on your tortellini timer, grab a skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter along with olive oil. When hot, toss in your chopped sage and cook for about one minute until it crisps up beautifully. Remove it from the pan so it doesn’t burn; we want it crunchy but not bitter!
Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms
Next, add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic into the same skillet with another tablespoon of butter. Sauté everything together for about five minutes until the mushrooms are golden brown and fragrant. This step builds layers of flavor that make each bite so satisfying!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Once your tortellini is cooked, drain it well before adding it directly into your skillet with mushrooms. Add in the remaining butter, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and those crispy sage pieces you set aside earlier. Toss everything together gently until every piece of tortellini is coated in that luscious sauce. Season with salt and pepper as needed before serving hot!
Enjoy every bite of this flavorful Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage—your family will thank you!
Pro Tips for Making Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage
Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these simple tips will help ensure your tortellini dish turns out perfectly!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and sage can significantly enhance the flavors of your dish. They add a depth of taste that dried or canned versions simply can’t match.
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Don’t overcook the tortellini: Following the package instructions closely is key to achieving that ideal chewy texture. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy, taking away from the overall experience.
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Reserve pasta water: Before draining your tortellini, save a cup of the cooking water. This starchy water can be added to your sauce later to help it cling better to the pasta.
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Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your dish before serving and feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
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Experiment with cheese: While parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to mix things up with other cheeses like pecorino or an aged gouda for a unique twist on flavor.
How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage
Presenting your cheese tortellini beautifully can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas!
Garnishes
- Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
- Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavors and adds a touch of spice.
- Lemon zest: A bit of lemon zest can brighten up the dish, providing a refreshing contrast to the buttery sauce.
Side Dishes
- Garlic bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is always a favorite pairing. It’s perfect for sopping up any leftover butter sauce!
- Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the tortellini.
- Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds both color and nutrients to your meal. The slight crunch pairs beautifully with the soft tortellini.
- Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like zucchini or bell peppers, bring in extra flavors while adding a healthy component to your plate.
Now you’re ready to impress not just yourself but anyone lucky enough to share this delicious meal with you! Enjoy every bite of your gourmet cheese tortellini creation.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Let the dish cool thoroughly before freezing.
- Use a freezer-safe bag or container for storage.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
- Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
Have questions about this delightful dish? Here are some common queries!
Can I use another type of pasta instead of tortellini?
Absolutely! While this recipe features cheese tortellini, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
How do I make Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Simply ensure that your parmesan cheese is made without animal-derived rennet if you’re looking for stricter adherence to vegetarian diets.
Can I add other vegetables to Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
What can I serve with Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A light white wine or sparkling water would also complement it nicely!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in preparing this delicious Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage at home! It’s a comforting dish that’s not only easy to make but also elevates your weeknight meals into something special. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences or variations—you never know who might be inspired by your culinary creativity!
Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
If you’re searching for a comforting and gourmet dinner option that can be made quickly, look no further than Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage. This delightful dish transforms simple ingredients into an elegant meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of creamy butter, earthy mushrooms, and crispy sage creates a flavor profile that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a warm plate of comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 (20 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage (chopped)
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes until tender.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the mushrooms and sage by slicing the mushrooms and chopping the sage.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with olive oil. Add the chopped sage and cook for about one minute until crispy.
- Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about five minutes until golden brown.
- Drain the tortellini and add it to the skillet along with the remaining butter and parmesan cheese. Toss gently to coat and season with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
