Description
Tortellini with Mushrooms, Butter, and Parmesan
Who doesn’t love a comforting bowl of tortellini? This easy, 20-minute dish combines tender tortellini with umami-rich mushrooms, flavorful butter, and a generous helping of Parmesan cheese. It’s a cozy dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough to share with friends. Serve it with a simple green salad or roasted veggies, and you’ve got a meal that delights both the taste buds and the soul!
18 oz fresh tortellini
4 tbsp butter, divided
1 tbsp olive oil
12 oz sliced mushrooms
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup freshly-grated Parmesan
1-2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Kosher salt and black pepper
Directions:
1. Boil tortellini in salted water. Drain.
2. Sauté mushrooms in butter and olive oil, add garlic.
3. Mix in remaining butter, tortellini, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 586
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fresh tortellini and cook according to the package directions, usually 3-4 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the tortellini and set aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer, if possible. Cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes to allow them to brown, then stir and continue cooking until golden and tender, about 5-7 minutes total.
3. Add Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
4. Combine Everything: Add the drained tortellini to the skillet with the mushrooms. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, the grated Parmesan, and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together vigorously until the butter and cheese melt into a creamy, cohesive sauce that coats the pasta. Add more pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed.
5. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat. Stir in the chopped parsley. Season to taste with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and comforting pasta dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides to balance the meal. Serve it with a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier dinner, add a side of roasted asparagus or broccolini. To elevate the presentation, offer extra grated Parmesan at the table and garnish with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
How-to Summary
Boil and drain fresh tortellini, reserving some pasta water. In a skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms in butter and oil until golden. Add garlic, then toss in the pasta with more butter, Parmesan, and a splash of pasta water to create a silky sauce. Finish with parsley, salt, and pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh? Yes, but cooking times will be longer (typically 8-12 minutes). The texture will be slightly denser, and you may need to use more reserved pasta water to help form the sauce.
What type of mushrooms work best? Cremini (baby bella) mushrooms are ideal for their robust flavor. A mix of wild mushrooms like shiitake or oyster would add a gourmet touch.
How can I make this dish creamier? After adding the Parmesan, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese for an extra luxurious, velvety sauce.
Can I prepare this in advance? It’s best served immediately. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead: slice mushrooms, mince garlic, and grate cheese. Reheating may cause the sauce to separate slightly.
Is there a substitute for Parmesan? Pecorino Romano offers a sharper, saltier flavor. For a milder taste, a high-quality Asiago cheese would also work well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking the mushrooms, as this will steam them instead of browning them. Do not skip reserving the starchy pasta water—it’s crucial for helping the cheese and butter emulsify into a smooth sauce. Be careful not to burn the garlic by adding it to very high heat; cook it just until fragrant. Finally, grate your own Parmesan cheese from a block, as pre-grated varieties contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
Conclusion
This Tortellini with Mushrooms, Butter, and Parmesan is the epitome of simple, elegant comfort food. In just 20 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that feels indulgent yet is straightforward to prepare. The combination of savory mushrooms, rich butter, and nutty Parmesan creates a deeply satisfying sauce that clings perfectly to each piece of stuffed pasta. It’s a versatile recipe that promises to become a reliable favorite in your weeknight rotation, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort every single time.