Creamy Brown Butter Tortellini

Creamy Brown Butter Tortellini is an elegant and indulgent dish that brings together the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with a luscious cream sauce, perfectly coating tender tortellini. This recipe is ideal for a special dinner or a comforting meal at home. Follow this guide to create a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Selecting the Tortellini

1. Best Types of Tortellini: Cheese tortellini works wonderfully for this recipe, but you can also use spinach and cheese or meat-filled tortellini for variety.
2. Preparing Tortellini: If using store-bought tortellini, follow the package instructions for cooking. For homemade tortellini, prepare according to your recipe.

Making the Brown Butter

1. What is Brown Butter?: Brown butter, or “beurre noisette,” is butter that has been melted and cooked until it turns golden brown, developing a nutty aroma and flavor.
2. Step-by-Step Guide:
   • In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty fragrance. Be careful not to burn it.
   • Remove from heat and set aside.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

1. Combining the Cream with the Brown Butter: In the same skillet with the brown butter, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, pour in the heavy cream and whisk to combine.
2. Enhancing the Flavor: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue to whisk until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Cooking the Tortellini

1. Proper Cooking Method: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions or until they float to the top and are tender.
2. Tips for Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and taste a piece to ensure it’s cooked to your preference.

Combining the Tortellini and Sauce

1. Mixing the Tortellini with the Sauce: Drain the cooked tortellini and add it directly to the skillet with the creamy brown butter sauce.
2. Ensuring Even Coating and Flavor: Toss gently to coat the tortellini evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Adding Optional Garnishes

1. Suggested Garnishes: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, toasted pine nuts, or extra grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
2. How to Garnish: Add garnishes just before serving to maintain their freshness and visual appeal.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Course: Serve the tortellini hot with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Pairing with Beverages: A glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Storing and Reheating

1. Storing Leftovers: Store leftover tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Alternative Ingredients: Try using ravioli or gnocchi as a substitute for tortellini. Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
2. Dietary Substitutions: Use gluten-free tortellini and dairy-free cream to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets.

Tips for Success

1. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t overcook the tortellini, as it can become mushy. Be careful not to burn the butter, as this can give the sauce a bitter taste.
2. Pro Tips: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Stir the sauce continuously to prevent it from separating.

Health Benefits

1. Nutritional Value of Key Ingredients: Tortellini provides protein and carbohydrates, while brown butter adds healthy fats. Parmesan cheese offers calcium and protein.
2. Healthier Alternatives: Use whole wheat tortellini and light cream for a healthier version. Add steamed vegetables for extra nutrients.

Conclusion

Creamy Brown Butter Tortellini is a deliciously indulgent dish that combines the richness of brown butter with the creamy goodness of a Parmesan sauce. This recipe is sure to become a favorite for its simplicity and elegance. Try it for your next meal and enjoy the delightful flavors!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   • Yes, you can use ravioli, gnocchi, or any filled pasta of your choice.
2. How long does the sauce stay fresh?
   • The sauce stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop before combining with the tortellini.
4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
   • You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.
5. How can I make this recipe vegan?
   • Use vegan butter and a plant-based cream. Ensure the tortellini is vegan, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
     Yield: 4

     Creamy Brown Butter Tortellini

     

     Print

     Creamy Brown Butter Tortellini is an elegant and indulgent dish that brings together the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with a luscious cream sauce, perfectly coating tender tortellini. This recipe is ideal for a special dinner or a comforting meal at home. Follow this guide to create a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

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     Prep Time 10 minutes

     Cook Time 15 minutes

     Ingredients

     • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
     • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
     • 6 cloves of garlic, minced or pressed
     • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped sage leaves
     • 1/2 cup chicken broth
     • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
     • 1/4 cup dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
     • 20 ounce store-bought fresh cheese tortellini
     • 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
     • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes- optional
     • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
     • kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

     Instructions

     1. Brown the butter. In a large, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot that is lightly colored on the inside (so you can see the butter transformation), melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter melts, it will get foamy, and you will hear it bubbling as it cooks. Then it will take on a clear, light golden color. Note: Do not leave the pot unattended during the browning process as it can burn very quickly. Then the butter will turn deep brown and have a nutty aroma with brown bits on the bottom, about 5-7 minutes.
     2. Add in the flavor agents. Toss the chopped shallot into the pan and sauté until the shallot becomes translucent and starts to turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Add in the garlic, stirring often until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then sprinkle in the fresh chopped sage leaves, cooking until the herbs are fragrant, about 1 minute.
     3. Bring it all together & simmer. Pour in the broth, cream, and wine. Stir everything together until fully combined. Then add in the fresh tortellini and carefully stir together to combine with the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid to simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
     4. Finish sauce & season. Uncover the skillet and give everything a good stir. At this stage the sauce will be somewhat thin. Sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), ground nutmeg, and salt/pepper- to taste, and stir together to combine. Remove the skillet from the heat- let the dish sit for 1-2 minutes. The residual heat will continue cooking the dish and the sauce will thicken. 
     5. Serve this creamy brown butter tortellini immediately with extra grated parmesan on top, if desired. Enjoy!