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Creamy Cheese Tortellini with Butter and Savory Mushrooms

creamy cheese tortellini with butter and savory mushrooms - featured image

A quick and easy weeknight pasta dish featuring tender cheese tortellini, deeply browned mushrooms, and a silky butter-Parmesan sauce. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 oz (250g) fresh or dried cheese tortellini
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 8 oz (225g) cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced ¼-inch thick
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup (60ml) reserved pasta water
  • ½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While the water heats, slice mushrooms and mince garlic. Grate Parmesan.
  2. Cook tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons butter and let it melt and foam.
  4. Add sliced mushrooms in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until deep golden brown. Stir and cook another 3-4 minutes until browned and fragrant.
  5. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
  6. Reduce heat to low. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter and let melt. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss gently.
  7. Add ¼ cup reserved pasta water and grated Parmesan. Toss until cheese melts and creates a silky sauce. Add more pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

Reserve more pasta water than you think you need—it’s the secret to a silky sauce. Don’t wash mushrooms; wipe them clean with a damp paper towel for better browning. Grate your own Parmesan for smooth melting. Work quickly once tortellini is done to prevent sauce from thickening.

Nutrition

Keywords: tortellini, mushroom pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, cheese tortellini, butter sauce