Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and gourmet, you’ve come to the right place! This Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. It’s one of those recipes that always gets compliments, whether I’m serving it on a busy weeknight or at a family gathering. The rich flavors of butter paired with earthy mushrooms and crispy sage elevate the simple cheese tortellini into a delightful meal that everyone will love.

This dish is perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy dinner at home or an impressive addition to your next gathering. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it a great option when time is short but you still want something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter, mushrooms, and crispy sage creates a mouthwatering dish that feels fancy yet comforting.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this cheesy goodness, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ingredients in advance for an even quicker cook time when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Each one plays an important role in making this dish shine!

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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Some Protein: Toss in cooked chicken or sautéed shrimp for extra heartiness.
• Go Green: Add spinach or kale for a boost of color and nutrition.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try using ricotta or goat cheese instead of parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan margarine and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

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

Step 1: Boil the Tortellini

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s at a rolling boil, add your cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta is the foundation of your dish!

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

While your tortellini cooks, take this time to prep your mushrooms and chop the fresh sage. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 3: Crisp Up the Sage

Just before your tortellini finishes cooking (about 6-7 minutes left), heat 1 tablespoon of butter along with olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped sage. Sauté for about a minute until it becomes crisp. This step infuses the oil with sage flavor while giving you that delightful crunch!

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms

Next, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet along with another tablespoon of butter. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are beautifully browned. This browning adds depth to their flavor.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your tortellini is cooked and drained, add it directly into the skillet along with your remaining butter, fresh parmesan cheese, and that crispy sage we set aside earlier. Toss everything gently until well-coated. Season with salt & pepper as needed. Serve this glorious dish immediately—it’s best enjoyed hot!

With each bite of this Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved favorite in my kitchen! Enjoy!

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

Cooking can be an adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll take your tortellini dish to the next level!

• Use fresh sage: Fresh sage has a more vibrant flavor than dried. It adds a fragrant aroma and enhances the overall taste of your dish.

• Don’t overcook the mushrooms: Sautéing them just until they’re browned brings out their natural sweetness and adds a lovely texture. Overcooking can make them mushy and less flavorful.

• Reserve pasta water: Before draining the tortellini, save a cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid can be added to the sauce to create a silky consistency if needed.

• Customize with veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition and color. They’ll blend nicely with the flavors of sage and mushrooms.

• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove while everything is hot and flavorful. It ensures that each bite is just as delightful as the last!

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

Presenting your Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Extra parmesan: Offering freshly grated parmesan at the table allows guests to sprinkle as much cheese as they desire.
• Lemon zest: A hint of lemon zest on top will provide a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of butter and cheese.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread pairs perfectly by providing a wonderful texture contrast while soaking up any leftover buttery sauce.

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the tortellini without overwhelming it.

• Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted until crispy offers a healthy side that enhances your meal’s visual appeal.

• Steamed Broccoli: Nutritious steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients to your plate while balancing out the indulgence of the main dish.

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

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the tortellini into individual servings before freezing.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen tortellini overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dish!

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just cook the frozen cheese tortellini according to package instructions, and follow the rest of the recipe as directed.

What can I substitute for sage in Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage?

If you’re out of sage, fresh thyme or basil would make excellent alternatives that still provide great flavor!

Can I make Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is wonderful for meal prep; just store it properly in the refrigerator or freezer as outlined above.

How do I ensure my mushrooms stay tender when making this dish?

Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when sautéing your mushrooms. This allows them to brown evenly without becoming rubbery.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage! It’s such a comforting meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet fancy enough for entertaining. I invite you to try it out and share your experience! Cooking should be fun and rewarding—happy cooking!