Name: Tortellini Poppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 oz Cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated; 1 tsp Garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp Paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp Olive oil; 1 Grated Parmesan cheese; 1 Fresh Parsley; 1 Marinara sauce; 1 Ranch dressing or pesto

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why make this recipe

Tortellini Poppers give you warm, cheesy bites that are quick to make. They are great for snacks, parties, or a simple weeknight meal. The recipe uses few ingredients and cooks fast.

introduction

This recipe turns cheese tortellini into crispy, tasty poppers. They crisp in a pan and taste great with marinara or ranch. For a different popper idea, try a sweet breakfast version like pancake poppers.

how to make Tortellini Poppers

Start by cooking the tortellini. Mix spices and toss the pasta with oil. Fry in a hot skillet until the tortellini get golden and a little crispy. Serve with dipping sauce and sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan.

Ingredients :

1 tsp Garlic powder
1 Fresh Parsley
1 Marinara sauce
1 Ranch dressing or pesto
20 oz Cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp Paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp Olive oil
1 Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions :

Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss with olive oil until well coated.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned tortellini, sautéing until golden and crispy.
Serve warm with marinara sauce and ranch dressing or pesto for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

how to serve Tortellini Poppers

Serve warm on a plate with small bowls of marinara and ranch or pesto for dipping. They work well as an appetizer or side. You can pair them with a light soup such as chicken tortellini soup for a fuller meal.

how to store Tortellini Poppers

Cool the poppers to room temperature. Put them in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep them crispy.

tips to make Tortellini Poppers

Use fresh or refrigerated tortellini for best texture.
Do not crowd the pan; cook in batches for even crisping.
Use medium heat so they brown but do not burn.
Add parsley and Parmesan just before serving for fresh flavor.

variation (if any)

Add cooked bacon or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the toss for extra flavor.
Swap ranch for pesto as the dipping sauce for a bright, herby taste.
Make them spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes.

FAQs

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes. Toss the tortellini with oil and seasonings, spread on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–15 minutes until golden.

Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: You can use frozen tortellini if you cook and drain them first. Pat dry a bit so they crisp better.

Q: How do I keep them crispy after reheating?
A: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven on a baking sheet. Avoid microwaving if you want crispiness.

Q: Can I prepare ahead?
A: You can cook and cool the tortellini ahead, then toss and crisp in the pan before serving.

Conclusion

For a different twist on poppers that uses peppers and creamy sauce, see this take on a similar idea at Vegan Jalapeño Popper Pasta – Legally Healthy Blonde. If you like rich, cheesy pasta poppers, you might also enjoy the recipe at Jalapeno Popper Fettuccine Alfredo – The Spiffy Cookie.