Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's ready in a flash? Look no further! This four cheese tortellini recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend dinner. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's sure to become a family favorite. This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and cooking skills, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick and healthy meal. Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy heaven!
Ingredients: You'll only need a handful!
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Feel free to double or triple it depending on your needs.
- 1 pound cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Asiago cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled ricotta salata cheese (or feta for a tangier twist)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions: Let's get cooking!
This four cheese tortellini recipe is incredibly straightforward, even for a beginner.
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Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
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Sauté the garlic: While the tortellini cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the dish bitter.
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Create the creamy sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan, Asiago, Romano, and ricotta salata cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine everything: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Garnish and serve: Stir in the fresh basil and serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, if desired.
Tips for Tortellini Perfection
- Don't overcook the tortellini: Al dente pasta is key to a great dish. Overcooked tortellini will become mushy.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that elevates the dish. If you don't have fresh basil, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
- Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your perfect combination. Provolone, Fontina, or even a little mozzarella would work well.
- Add some protein: For a heartier meal, add some cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the skillet with the tortellini.
Variations: Beyond the Classic
- Spicy Tortellini: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Vegetarian Tortellini: This recipe is already vegetarian! But you can add sauteed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Creamy Pesto Tortellini: Stir in 1/4 cup of pesto along with the cheese for a vibrant twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This four cheese tortellini recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or even a simple lunch. Enjoy!