Creamy Garlic Butter Tortellini (Print-Friendly Version)

Tortellini cloaked in a rich garlic butter sauce with Parmesan and a sprinkle of herbs.

# What You’ll Need to Make This:

→ Pasta

01 - 450 g fresh cheese tortellini

→ Sauce

02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 5 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 1 cup heavy cream
05 - 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
07 - 0.25 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
08 - 0.25 cup reserved pasta cooking water
09 - Salt, to taste
10 - Black pepper, to taste
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# How to Prepare:

01 - Boil cheese tortellini in well-salted water following package instructions. Before draining, reserve 60 ml cooking water.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté 1 minute until aromatic, ensuring garlic does not brown.
03 - Pour heavy cream into skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in Parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Stir in nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
04 - Add drained tortellini to the sauce. Toss gently to coat, loosening the sauce as needed with reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
05 - Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

# Extra Tips:

01 - For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, noting the sauce will be thinner.
02 - If nutmeg is unavailable, use 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon for warmth.
03 - The sauce thickens upon standing. Stir in a splash of milk when reheating.
04 - For additional protein, fold in sautéed shrimp or chicken before serving.