These Parmesan Crusted Tortellini Bites are little bundles of joy! Each bite is filled with cheesy goodness and coated in crunchy, golden Parmesan. Yum!
They’re perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer, and trust me, they disappear fast! I love serving them with marinara sauce for dipping—delicious and fun! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini works best in this recipe. If you prefer, you can use stuffed pasta like ravioli. Just make sure they aren’t too large to fry!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is essential for that delicious crust. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute for a stronger flavor. Nutritional yeast is a good vegan alternative, too.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add extra flavor. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Homemade breadcrumbs are also a great choice!
Garlic Powder & Italian Seasoning: These spices add wonderful flavor. Feel free to swap garlic powder for fresh minced garlic or add some chili flakes for a spicy kick.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Tortellini Bites?
Getting that perfect crunch is all about the coating and frying technique. Here are some tips:
- Ensure tortellini is well-drained and not too wet before coating, or the breadcrumbs won’t stick.
- Don’t rush the frying. Medium heat allows for even cooking without burning the coating.
- Fry in batches to avoid crowding the pan, which can steam the bites instead of frying them.
- Let them drain on paper towels after frying to keep that crispy texture.
With these tips, you’re sure to have crunchy, delicious tortellini bites! Enjoy every tasty morsel!
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Tortellini Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tortellini Bites:
- 1 package (9-12 oz) refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil, or more as needed for frying
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For Dipping:
- Marinara sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20-25 minutes in total: 10 minutes for prep and cooking the tortellini, plus around 15 minutes for frying. Quick and easy for a delicious snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they’re al dente (cooked but firm). Once done, drain the tortellini well and set them aside to cool slightly. This keeps them from getting too soft when you coat and fry them!
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, 3/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. In another bowl, crack and beat the two large eggs until they are well mixed. This will be your egg wash to help the breadcrumb coating stick!
3. Coat the Tortellini:
Take each tortellini and first dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help the breadcrumbs adhere well. This step is what makes those bites so crispy!
4. Fry the Tortellini Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the coated tortellini in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they become golden brown and crispy. You want them to be perfect little crunchy bites!
5. Drain and Serve:
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the tortellini bites from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. While they’re still hot, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over them and add a touch of freshly chopped parsley if you like!
6. Serve:
Finally, arrange the Parmesan crusted tortellini bites on a serving plate and serve with a bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping. These little bites are best enjoyed hot, so dig in and enjoy every cheesy, crunchy morsel!
These bites have a crispy golden crust with gooey cheese inside—perfect as a snack or appetizer!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh. Just make sure to cook them directly from frozen until they’re tender, as recommended on the package. Drain thoroughly before coating and frying.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Tortellini Bites?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated tortellini bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crisp.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave as it can make them soggy.
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste. Adding herbs like fresh basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor. You can also mix in different cheeses, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a twist!
