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

Description

Crispy, golden Air Fryer Tortellini makes a delicious and easy appetizer or snack. Cheese-filled tortellini is coated in olive oil, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, and air-fried to perfection. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Pasta

9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini

Coating

2 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (for coating)

Finishing Touches

1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (for topping)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Prepare the Tortellini: Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook for 4 minutes. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Ensure all excess water is removed, so the oil and seasonings will better adhere to the tortellini.
Season the Tortellini: Place the drained tortellini into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and stir to coat evenly. Sprinkle the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and ½ cup of the freshly grated parmesan cheese over the tortellini. Toss until every piece is well coated.
Preheat the Air Fryer: If required, preheat your air fryer to 360°F according to your manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Air Fry the Tortellini: Arrange the seasoned tortellini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 6 minutes, then shake or turn the tortellini and continue to air fry for another 5–6 minutes, or until the pieces are golden brown and crispy.
Finish and Serve: Transfer the air-fried tortellini to a serving dish. Sprinkle with the remaining ¼ cup parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

Make sure the tortellini is well-drained and dry before coating to ensure crispiness.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; work in batches if necessary to allow even cooking.
Serve with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to regain crispness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
Calories: 275
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 30mg