Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then let me introduce you to my favorite recipe: Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet elegant. The combination of buttery tortellini, earthy mushrooms, and crispy sage elevates simple grocery store pasta into a gourmet delight!

What makes this recipe truly special is its ease of preparation. It’s great for family gatherings or even just a cozy dinner at home. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a meal that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and fun shapes of cheese tortellini.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and toss everything together right before serving.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of butter, mushrooms, and crispy sage creates a dish that’s both comforting and fancy.
• Versatile Ingredients: Simple ingredients mean you can easily tailor this dish to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful dish, you only need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Pasta

• 1 (20 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon fresh sage (chopped)
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
• 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Variations

One of the best things about this Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak it to suit your preferences or what’s in your pantry.

• Add some greens: Toss in some baby spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or some cream cheese for an extra rich sauce.
• Change up the mushrooms: Use shiitake or button mushrooms if cremini are not available; each type brings its own unique flavor.
• Herb swap: If sage isn’t your favorite, try using thyme or basil for a different aromatic twist.

How to Make Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling away, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta will hold onto all those tasty flavors we’re adding later.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Ingredients

While your tortellini cooks, take this time to prep your mushrooms and sage. Slicing the mushrooms thinly allows them to cook evenly while chopping the sage releases its fragrant oils—both steps are key to maximizing flavor!

Step 3: Crispy Sage Magic

In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter along with olive oil. Once it’s hot enough (you’ll know by how quickly the butter bubbles), add the chopped sage. Cook it for about a minute until it crisps up beautifully. Remove it from the pan and set aside; trust me, this crispy sage is going to add that perfect crunch!

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms

Next up in our skillet! Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic along with another tablespoon of butter. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they’re golden brown and fragrant. This step builds layers of flavor that make every bite irresistible.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your tortellini is cooked and drained (don’t forget to save some pasta water if needed!), add it to the skillet along with any remaining butter, parmesan cheese, and that lovely crispy sage we made earlier. Toss everything together gently so each piece gets coated in buttery goodness. Season with salt and pepper as needed before serving immediately.

And there you have it—a beautiful plate of Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

Cooking can be a joyful experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll elevate your cheese tortellini dish to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh sage and mushrooms bring vibrant flavors that dried or canned options simply can’t match. They add depth and freshness to the dish, making each bite delightful.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When sautéing the mushrooms, give them enough space in the skillet. This allows them to brown evenly and develop a rich flavor rather than steaming.

• Reserve pasta water: Before draining your tortellini, save a cup of the cooking water. It’s starchy and can be added to the sauce if you need to loosen it up while tossing everything together.

• Experiment with cheese: While parmesan is fantastic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like pecorino or even a sprinkle of feta for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique taste and character to the dish.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Always taste your dish before serving! Adding salt and pepper at the end allows you to customize it based on your preferences or those of your guests.

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

This dish not only tastes incredible but also looks beautiful on the plate. Here are some ideas on how you can present it for a delightful dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or additional sage leaves adds color and a fresh aroma that complements the savory flavors.
• Lemon zest: Grating some lemon zest over the top just before serving brightens up the dish with a refreshing zing that balances out the richness of the butter.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch can enhance flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm slices of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up any leftover butter sauce. The crispy edges paired with soft centers complement the pasta beautifully.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tortellini. Consider using arugula or spinach for added peppery notes.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers roasted until caramelized make for an excellent side—adding texture and nutrients alongside your meal.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers elegance and pairs wonderfully with buttery dishes like this one.

Enjoy creating this comforting yet gourmet meal that will impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep! It’s quick to whip up and keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the tortellini to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool fully before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. If using a bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use frozen cheese tortellini. Just cook them according to the package instructions, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

What makes Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage special?

This recipe elevates store-bought cheese tortellini with a rich sage butter sauce, earthy mushrooms, and crispy sage leaves that add wonderful flavor and texture.

Can I substitute other herbs instead of sage?

Yes! While sage gives this dish its signature flavor, you can substitute with thyme or basil if preferred. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall taste slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage! It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of flavors is truly heartwarming, and I can’t wait for you to experience it. Happy cooking!