Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce for Tortellini

Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce for Tortellini is a rich, velvety, and savory sauce that clings beautifully to every bite of pasta. Made with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese, this sauce transforms simple tortellini into a comforting and elegant meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this quick and luxurious sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sauce is packed with flavor yet requires only a handful of ingredients and about 15 minutes to make. It’s versatile, works with cheese or meat tortellini, and pairs wonderfully with vegetables or grilled chicken. The creamy garlic butter base is both indulgent and comforting—perfect for pasta lovers who want a quick upgrade to their favorite tortellini.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Pasta water (reserved from cooking tortellini)
• Cooked tortellini (cheese or meat-filled)
• Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
8. Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
• Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for a protein boost.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Substitute Pecorino Romano for Parmesan for a sharper cheese flavor.
• Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat.

storage/reheating

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. A mix of milk and a bit of flour or cream cheese can help thicken it.

Will this sauce work with other pastas?

Yes, it pairs well with fettuccine, penne, ravioli, or gnocchi.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can make it ahead and store it for up to 2 days. Reheat slowly to preserve the texture.

What kind of garlic should I use?

Fresh garlic is best, but garlic paste or pre-minced garlic can work in a pinch.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low and avoid boiling once the cream is added.

Can I freeze this sauce?

Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well as they may separate when thawed. It’s best made fresh.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the tortellini and Parmesan are gluten-free.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

You can, though fresh garlic gives the best flavor. Use about ½ teaspoon garlic powder as a substitute.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer slightly longer or add more cheese. A bit of cornstarch slurry can also help.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, just ensure your Parmesan is vegetarian or use a vegetarian cheese substitute.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce for Tortellini is an effortless way to elevate a simple pasta dish into something rich and satisfying. With its velvety texture and bold garlic-Parmesan flavor, this sauce is sure to become a favorite for both quick weeknight dinners and cozy comfort meals. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back for more.

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