Name: Pesto Tortellini Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini; 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Imagine this: pillowy cheese tortellini tossed in vibrant basil pesto, studded with juicy cherry tomatoes and dusted with a flurry of Parmesan. That’s the heart of this Pesto Tortellini Recipe—a one-pan wonder packed with flavor, color, and comfort. This dish is perfect for both busy weeknights and impromptu gatherings, turning minimal effort into maximum deliciousness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a meal that feels like a warm Italian hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, this Pesto Tortellini Recipe lets every element shine. Each item offers a unique note—creamy, tangy, fresh, or peppery—that comes together in an irresistibly harmonious way.

Cheese tortellini (1 package, 20 oz): The star of the show, these tender pasta pockets bring a luscious, cheesy bite to every forkful.
Prepared basil pesto (1/2 cup): A jar of this herby, garlicky sauce is shortcut magic; fresh or store-bought, it infuses the whole dish with summery brightness.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Gives a silky, rich base for sautéing the tomatoes and melding flavors.
Cherry tomatoes, halved (1 cup): These burst with sweet-tart juiciness, adding pops of color and freshness.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): A shower of salty, nutty cheese that melts beautifully over the finished pasta.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a gentle heat that enhances all the other flavors.
Fresh basil leaves for garnish: The optional finishing touch for a boost of color and fragrance.

How to Make Pesto Tortellini Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—just like Nonna would! Add the cheese tortellini and cook them according to the package directions. Usually, they’re ready in 3 to 5 quick minutes. Once they float to the top and are perfectly tender, drain them well and set aside. Keeping the tortellini slightly al dente ensures they hold up when tossed with pesto.

Step 2: Sauté the Cherry Tomatoes

While your tortellini drains, heat up the olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and give them a stir. In just 2 to 3 minutes, they’ll soften and become extra juicy, releasing a burst of bright flavor that pairs beautifully with the pesto.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Now for the fun part! Add your cooked tortellini to the skillet with the tomatoes. Pour in the basil pesto and sprinkle in the black pepper. Toss gently but thoroughly—every tortellini should get cozy under a glossy coat of pesto. Let it all warm through for another 1 to 2 minutes, soaking up those aromatic flavors.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Take the skillet off the heat and immediately shower everything with grated Parmesan. The cheese will melt ever so slightly, adding a creamy richness. For a final flourish, add fresh basil leaves right before serving. This little step brightens up the whole plate and makes it look irresistibly fresh.

How to Serve Pesto Tortellini Recipe

Garnishes

The finishing touches matter! Fresh basil leaves look striking and infuse each bite with garden-fresh aroma. Try a few extra shavings of Parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top for a professional touch. Pine nuts or crushed walnuts add delicious crunch if you want to go the extra mile.

Side Dishes

To round out the meal, pair this Pesto Tortellini Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette, or lightly roasted seasonal veggies. A basket of warm, crusty Italian bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto. If you’re in the mood to celebrate, serve with a chilled glass of white wine.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic pasta bowl! Skewer individual tortellini and cherry tomatoes for fun party appetizers. Serve the pasta in edible parmesan bowls for a dramatic dinner party twist, or pack leftovers into a Mason jar for an enviable on-the-go lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Pesto Tortellini Recipe (lucky you!), pack it into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days without losing its flavor or texture. The pesto may absorb a bit into the pasta, but this just means even more flavor!

Freezing

The Pesto Tortellini Recipe freezes surprisingly well! Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags. Store for up to one month; just be aware the tomatoes may become a little softer on thawing, though still tasty.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water, milk, or extra pesto to loosen things up. A quick zap in the microwave works too—just cover the bowl to keep moisture in. Stir well before serving, and add a fresh sprinkle of cheese or basil for new life.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Spinach and cheese, meat, or even mushroom tortellini all work beautifully in this Pesto Tortellini Recipe. Customize to match your craving or use whatever’s available at your market.

Is homemade pesto better than store-bought?

Homemade pesto can bring unparalleled freshness and personal flair to your dish, especially if summer basil is abundant. That said, high-quality store-bought pesto is convenient and delicious—it’s a time-saving superstar, especially on busy nights.

What protein can I add to make it heartier?

Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas are fantastic ways to boost the protein. Stir them in just before serving to warm through and absorb the flavors of the pesto.

Can this dish be served cold?

Yes! The Pesto Tortellini Recipe makes an excellent pasta salad, especially for picnics or potlucks. Just chill the cooked tortellini and toss with extra pesto, tomatoes, and any other add-ins you like before serving.

What’s the best way to keep tortellini from sticking together?

As soon as it’s cooked and drained, toss the tortellini with a bit of olive oil to keep the pasta from clumping while you prep the other elements. This trick keeps each bite bouncy and separate!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s quick, colorful, and undeniably comforting, this Pesto Tortellini Recipe is the answer. It’s a feel-good meal that comes together in a flash, but tastes like you spent all afternoon in the kitchen. Give it a try—and don’t forget to share with a hungry friend!

Pesto Tortellini Recipe

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4.5 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Pesto Tortellini, a quick and flavorful Italian pasta dish that combines cheese-filled tortellini with fragrant basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is a perfect harmony of fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

Boil Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package directions until tender, usually 3 to 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly softened.
Combine Ingredients: Add cooked tortellini to the skillet along with pesto and black pepper. Toss gently to coat, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.
Final Touches: Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.