Tortellini Alfredo

5 from 1

Cheese tortellini and baby peas are coated in a rich, garlicky creamy alfredo sauce for a quick and easy meal the family will ask for again and again!

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

Prep Time5

Cook Time20

Total Time25

Course: dinner

Cuisine: American

Keyword: tortellini alfredo

Servings: servings

Ingredients

2 (9 ounces each) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
1/2 cup butter cut into large cubes or slices
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 clove garlic minced
3/4 tsp garlic powder
3/4 tsp dried Italian Seasoning
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup frozen peas thawed (optional)
Fresh chopped parsley chopped

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of the cooking water, then drain well. Set aside.
In the meantime, in a large nonstick skillet, over medium-low heat, add the butter and heavy cream; whisk until butter has melted.
Add in the minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; whisk until combined and smooth.
Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil) then cook for 3-4 minutes, whisking constantly, until it starts to thicken.
Add in the parmesan cheese (1/2 cup at a time), stirring, until melted and the sauce is smooth and thickened.
Add the baby peas and stir until heated through.
Take the sauce off the heat (see note below if the sauce is too thick or too thin) and immediately toss with the cooked tortellini.
Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Garnish with parsley, more Parmesan, and black pepper if desired.

Video

Notes

Sauce too thin? Let it simmer gently for another minute or two, whisking constantly. You can also stir in a little more freshly grated Parmesan to help it thicken. Keep in mind the sauce will continue to thicken once it’s tossed with the hot pasta and begins to cool.
Sauce too thick? Add reserved pasta water one to two tbsp at a time until the sauce loosens to your liking. A small splash of heavy cream or milk also works. Warm the sauce gently over low heat while stirring to bring it back to a smooth, creamy consistency.

Optional Add-Ins

Grilled, rotisserie, or baked chicken breast for extra protein
Sautéed shrimp seasoned with garlic and butter
Crispy pancetta or bacon for a salty bite
Sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, savory addition
Fresh spinach stirred in at the end until just wilted
Roasted broccoli or asparagus for contrast and texture
Red pepper flakes for a little heat
Lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the sauce

Nutrition