Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just be sure to cook them according to package instructions before following the rest of the recipe. The key is to start with cooked, fully drained tortellini.

What sauces are best for dipping?

Classic marinara is always a win, but don’t overlook creamy ranch, garlic aioli, or even pesto for dipping. The crispy, cheesy outside soaks up any sauce beautifully.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Definitely! Air fry up to a day in advance and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving to restore that crispy shell.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

A convection oven set to 400°F works in a pinch. Spread the coated tortellini in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake until golden and crisp—about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Air Fryer Tortellini Recipe

Looking for the ultimate crispy, cheesy bite that’s ready in under half an hour? This Air Fryer Tortellini recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. With gooey cheese tucked inside tender pasta, coated in zesty herbs and parmesan, and air-fried to golden perfection, these little morsels satisfy like your favorite appetizer and main dish rolled into one. Minimal prep, big flavor—get ready for compliments and requests for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Fast: From start to finish, this Air Fryer Tortellini is ready in under 25 minutes. Yes, that quick!
No-Fuss, Big Flavor: Perfectly seasoned, crispy outside, cheesy inside—every bite is packed with comfort.
Versatile: Serve as a cozy main dish or crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Family Friendly: Adults and kids alike can’t resist the crunchy, cheesy appeal.
Minimal Cleanup: Everything comes together with one pot, one bowl, and your trusty air fryer. That’s it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Refrigerated Cheese Tortellini: The star of the show! Choose fresh, not dried, for the perfect bite; any filling works, but cheese offers the classic flavor.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning and cheese stick and brings out a rich, golden color.
Garlic Powder: Adds mellow, savory depth—and you can’t skip it!
Italian Seasoning: Dried herbs deliver that unmistakable Italian flavor in every bite.
Kosher Salt: Enhances all the other flavors, no bland pasta here.
Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: A subtle kick and complexity, freshly ground is always better.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Half is for the coating, half for finishing—freshly grated melts better and clings beautifully.
Fresh Parsley: For that burst of color and fresh taste right at the end.

For best results, drain the tortellini well after boiling—water will keep the coating from sticking!

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mix if you like a little heat.
Pesto Twist: Toss in a spoonful of basil pesto instead of Italian seasoning for an herby punch.
Vegan Option: Use vegan tortellini and swap in nutritional yeast for the parmesan.
Different Fillings: Try mushroom, spinach, or meat-filled tortellini—this method celebrates any flavor.
Gluten-Free: Look for gluten-free tortellini and proceed as usual for a celiac-friendly snack.

How to Make Air Fryer Tortellini

Step 1: Boil the Tortellini

Start by bringing your water to a boil. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini and let it cook for just four minutes. You want them barely tender—not mushy! Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and help them dry out.

Step 2: Coat with Oil and Seasonings

Pop the drained tortellini into a medium bowl. Drizzle generously with your best olive oil and stir until each piece is shiny and coated. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, cracked pepper, and half of the parmesan. Give everything a gentle toss so each tortellini is enveloped in flavor and cheese.

Step 3: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

If your air fryer needs it, preheat to 360°F. Spray the basket with nonstick cooking spray for easy cleanup. Arrange your coated tortellini in a single layer—don’t crowd them! Air fry for six minutes, give them a gentle shake, then air fry for another five to six minutes. They’ll come out gloriously golden and crisp.

Step 4: Serve with a Finishing Touch

Tumble the hot tortellini into your favorite serving dish. While they’re still hot, shower them with the rest of the parmesan and a sprinkling of fresh parsley for a pop of freshness.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Just four minutes is plenty; just enough for the pasta to hold up in the air fryer without falling apart.
Dry Thoroughly: The tortellini needs to be dry so the oil and cheese stick instead of sliding off.
Single Layer is Key: Airflow makes all the difference for even crispiness, so work in batches if necessary.
Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese has additives that can keep it from melting and sticking as well.

How to Serve

Air Fryer Tortellini works beautifully in so many ways:

Dipping Delight: Arrange around a bowl of warm marinara or pesto—perfect appetizer vibes.
Meal Upgrade: Serve as a playful main dish alongside a green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
Party Platter: Stack them high, sprinkle with extra parmesan, and watch them disappear at your next gathering.
Lunchbox Hero: Pack a few (cooled) for an unexpected, craveable lunch on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They’ll still be crispy, especially if you reheat them properly!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these—spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to a freezer bag. That way, they’ll keep their shape and texture.

Reheating

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes; they’ll come back to life crispy and delicious. Avoid microwaving, as they’ll turn soft.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just be sure to cook them according to package instructions before following the rest of the recipe. The key is to start with cooked, fully drained tortellini.
What sauces are best for dipping?

Classic marinara is always a win, but don’t overlook creamy ranch, garlic aioli, or even pesto for dipping. The crispy, cheesy outside soaks up any sauce beautifully.
Can I make these ahead for a party?

Definitely! Air fry up to a day in advance and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving to restore that crispy shell.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?

A convection oven set to 400°F works in a pinch. Spread the coated tortellini in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake until golden and crisp—about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a wildly satisfying, easy-to-make dish that brings everyone to the table with a smile, these Air Fryer Tortellini are about to be your go-to. They’re crispy, cheesy, and utterly snackable—plus, they take practically no time. Don’t be afraid to play with flavors and make this recipe your own. Grab that tortellini, fire up the air fryer, and enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite!