These Parmesan Crusted Tortellini Bites are crispy, cheesy goodness wrapped around tasty pasta. Perfect for a snack or party, they are sure to impress your friends!
They’re so easy to make that I often whip them up when friends drop by unexpectedly. Just bake them until golden, and watch them disappear from the plate! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Cheese Tortellini: This is the star of the dish! Look for high-quality cheese tortellini for the best flavor. You can also use fresh tortellini if you find it, but reduce the cooking time since it cooks faster.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs offer great flavor. If you don’t have these, plain breadcrumbs or even panko can work—just add a bit of Italian seasoning or garlic powder to give it some extra taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the crispiest coating. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated Parmesan will suffice. You could also use pecorino cheese for a sharper taste.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch for garnishing. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or substitute with another herb like basil or even dried herbs.
How Do I Make the Coating Stick to the Tortellini?
Coating tortellini properly is key for that crunchy bite. Here’s how to ensure your coating sticks well:
- Start by cooking the tortellini until they’re al dente—don’t overcook them! Overcooked tortellini can get mushy and won’t hold the coating well.
- Set up three shallow dishes: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix. This makes the coating process easier.
- Make sure to shake off excess flour before dipping in the egg—this helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere better.
- Press the tortellini into the breadcrumb mixture firmly to ensure a good coating. The more you press, the crunchier they’ll get!
Following these steps will help create a deliciously crispy outer layer. Happy cooking!
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Tortellini Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 package (9-12 oz) frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Olive oil, for frying
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook, so in total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes. Quick and delicious, perfect for snacking or entertaining!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the frozen cheese tortellini and cook according to the instructions on the package, typically 3-5 minutes until they’re al dente. When they are cooked, drain them in a colander and set aside to cool for a moment.
2. Prepare the Breading Station:
While your tortellini are cooling, grab three shallow dishes. In the first dish, put the flour. In the second dish, crack those two eggs and beat them well. In the third dish, mix together the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This will make your tasty coating!
3. Coat the Tortellini:
Now it’s time to give those tortellini a good coating! Take one tortellini and dip it into the flour first, shaking off any extra flour. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then roll it in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture until it’s thoroughly coated. Place the breaded tortellini on a baking sheet or a plate as you go.
4. Fry the Tortellini Bites:
Heat a good amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat—enough to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded tortellini bites in batches. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan! Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any extra oil.
5. Serve:
Time to enjoy your creations! Arrange the crispy Parmesan crusted tortellini bites on a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Serve them warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping—yum!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy treats!
Can I Use Fresh Tortellini Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh tortellini! Just reduce the cooking time to 1-2 minutes or until they float to the surface. Ensure they are drained and cooled slightly before breading as fresh pasta can be more delicate.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Be sure to check that the tortellini is also gluten-free, as some varieties contain wheat.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded tortellini bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
How Should I Store Leftover Tortellini Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness, or use an air fryer for even better results!
