Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli Recipe

Craving something rich, comforting, and oh-so-delicious? Look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli! The cheesy, tender tortellini paired with fresh, crunchy broccoli and a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce is like a warm hug in a bowl. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or any time you need a satisfying meal that’s both simple and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli

• Comforting & Hearty: The combination of soft tortellini, crisp-tender broccoli, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce makes for the ultimate cozy dish.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you need something satisfying without all the fuss.
• Packed with Flavor: The garlic Parmesan sauce is rich and savory, making every bite a flavor explosion.
• Vegetable Boost: With broccoli in the mix, this dish adds a healthy touch to your meal without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients in Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli

This recipe is full of simple ingredients that come together to create a big impact. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Tortellini & Broccoli:

• Cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen cheese-filled tortellini works great in this dish. You can also use other types of pasta if tortellini isn’t your thing.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, crunchy contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Salt: For seasoning the pasta water and enhancing all the flavors.

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• Unsalted butter: The base of the sauce, creating that creamy richness.
• Garlic: Minced garlic is essential for infusing the sauce with its aromatic flavor.
• Heavy cream: Adds smoothness and richness to the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan for that sharp, salty flavor that really makes the sauce pop.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to add a little extra depth to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning the sauce to taste.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes, until tender and floating. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the water. Once both the tortellini and broccoli are cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Add Cream and Parmesan

Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine with the butter and garlic. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken. Stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Continue to stir until the cheese melts completely, forming a smooth and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Add the cooked tortellini and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce. Toss everything gently to coat, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and well mixed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper if desired. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli

• With a side salad: A fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the dish perfectly.
• With garlic bread: For those who love extra garlic, serve with warm garlic bread to scoop up all that creamy sauce.
• With a protein: Serve this dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a juicy steak for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in some extra veggies like spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers for added color and nutrients.
• Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor in this sauce, so try to avoid garlic powder or pre-minced garlic if possible.
• Make it lighter: For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be a bit thinner.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortellini to make this dish gluten-free, and it will still be just as delicious!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 500
Total Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 500mg
Total Carbohydrates: 45g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 15g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use another type of pasta instead of tortellini?
A1: Yes! Feel free to use any pasta you like—fettuccine, penne, or ravioli all work great in this dish.

Q2: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A2: Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the dish.

Q3: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before combining with the tortellini.

Q4: How can I make this dish spicier?
A4: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing, or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the sauce.

Q5: Can I add protein to this dish?
A5: Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon would be a great addition to make this dish more hearty.

Q6: Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
A6: While fresh Parmesan cheese is ideal for its flavor and texture, you can use pre-grated Parmesan if that’s what you have on hand. Just note that the flavor may be a bit milder.

Q7: Can I freeze this dish?
A7: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce and tortellini separately for up to 1 month. Reheat the sauce gently and cook fresh tortellini when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Q8: How can I make this dish lighter?
A8: To lighten up the dish, substitute the heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative, and use less butter or a lower-fat option.

Q9: How do I store leftovers?
A9: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Q10: Can I make this dish without cream?
A10: Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative or chicken broth for a lighter sauce. The flavor will be a bit different, but still delicious.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli is a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity together in the best way possible. It’s the perfect meal when you want something satisfying but easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit! Enjoy!

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