Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

If you’re looking for a simple yet gourmet weeknight dinner, then this Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage is just what you need! This dish takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of buttery tortellini, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant sage creates a delightful balance of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

This recipe has become one of my favorites because it’s versatile enough for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Plus, who doesn’t love a quick meal that feels fancy? Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy tortellini and crispy sage!
• Gourmet flavor at home: Transform everyday ingredients into something special with this easy recipe.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or as a side; it pairs well with salads or crusty bread.
• Make-ahead option: You can prep the ingredients in advance for an even quicker dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking feel like a breeze! For this delicious Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage, you’ll 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 dish is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Swap the cheese: Use ricotta or goat cheese instead of parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Change the herbs: Try using thyme or basil if you’re out of sage; these herbs also bring lovely flavors to the dish.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or your favorite non-dairy alternative at the end for a rich sauce.

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, add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked tortellini will provide that lovely chewy texture we crave.

Step 2: Prep Your Ingredients

While the pasta cooks, take this time to slice your mushrooms and chop your sage. Having everything ready to go makes cooking smoother and faster. Plus, you’ll enjoy that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen as you work!

Step 3: Crisp the Sage

In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter along with olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped sage. Sauté until crispy—about one minute—and then remove it from the pan. This step adds incredible flavor and texture to your dish!

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter along with sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté for about five minutes until they turn golden brown. Browning enhances their natural sweetness and gives depth to your sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your tortellini is ready and drained, toss it into the skillet with remaining butter, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, crispy sage, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving immediately.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage! It’s sure to become a staple in your home just like it has in mine.

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

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh sage and mushrooms make a world of difference in flavor. They bring vibrant aromas and tastes that dried or canned options simply can’t match.

• Don’t overcook the tortellini: Follow the package instructions closely to avoid mushy pasta. Al dente tortellini provides the perfect bite and holds up well against the sautéed ingredients.

• Adjust the butter to your taste: If you love a richer sauce, feel free to add more butter! Just remember that extra fat will enhance the creaminess but keep an eye on overall calorie intake.

• Experiment with cheese: While parmesan is classic, try other cheeses like pecorino or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a different flavor profile. This keeps it interesting and caters to your personal taste preferences.

• Make it a meal prep star: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Prepare it ahead of time for quick weeknight dinners—just reheat gently on the stove!

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

Presentation is key when it comes to enjoying your meal! Here are some ideas to serve this delightful dish in style.

Garnishes

• Freshly cracked black pepper: A sprinkle adds depth and enhances the flavor without overshadowing the dish.
• Chopped fresh parsley: This bright herb brings color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the butter.
• Zest of lemon: A little citrus zest can brighten up the entire dish with its refreshing acidity.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce from your plate.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich tortellini.
• Roasted Asparagus: The slight bitterness of asparagus complements buttery dishes beautifully. Toss it with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until tender.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color as well as nutrients. Just steam until tender-crisp for a healthy side that doesn’t distract from your main course.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance or store leftovers for a quick meal later in the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the tortellini to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen tortellini in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra butter to help loosen it up.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delightful dish, here are some frequently asked questions!

Can I use dried sage instead of fresh in Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage?

Yes, you can use dried sage if fresh isn’t available. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

What can I serve with Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

How can I make Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage healthier?

You can substitute whole wheat tortellini for a healthier option. Additionally, adding more vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes would enhance both nutrition and flavor!

Can Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage be made vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil and leave out the parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine! Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage is not only simple but also elevates everyday ingredients into something truly special. Enjoy making this dish for yourself or your loved ones—it’s sure to become a favorite! Happy cooking!