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Ultimate Creamy Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

A close-up of a bowl filled with creamy Tortellini Alfredo Recipe, topped generously with grated Parmesan cheese and black pepper.

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Make this easy Tortellini Alfredo Recipe for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe features a thick and creamy homemade Alfredo sauce that tastes like restaurant style.

Ingredients

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  • 1 (16 ounce) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Pinch of salt, or to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the tortellini according to package directions until tender. If using fresh, this usually takes 3-5 minutes. If using frozen, follow package instructions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the tortellini. Set the drained tortellini aside.
  2. Prepare the Homemade Alfredo Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
  5. Reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and fully incorporated. Continue stirring until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
  6. Season the sauce with black pepper and salt to taste.
  7. Add the cooked and drained tortellini to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  8. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.
  9. Serve immediately. Top each serving with extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded.
  • To make this a complete meal, add cooked, sliced chicken breast or sautéed shrimp during the last step when tossing the tortellini with the sauce.
  • If you prefer a thinner sauce, increase the heavy cream by 1/4 cup.

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