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When you just want a fast treat that hits the spot, these crunchy air fryer tortellini fit the bill. They turn golden and crisp in minutes and are so good when you dunk them in marinara. Kids and adults gobble them up at movie nights or when friends drop by for the game.
I tossed these together one lazy Sunday afternoon and now everyone wants them whenever they’re craving something crunchy and cheesy that takes barely any effort.
Tasty Ingredients
- Cooking spray: keeps things from sticking and helps them brown up nicely in the fryer—pick something with a light, neutral taste
- Grated Parmesan: gives you that salty, nutty bite—go for freshly shredded if possible, the flavor really pops
- Salt: makes the flavors shine—fine sea salt melts in real fast
- Italian seasoning: herby shortcut to flavor town just rub between your fingers before using to bring out the scent
- Garlic powder: sharp savory goodness—get a fresh stash for the best taste
- Olive oil: helps spices stick and brings a little richness—extra virgin is awesome for a bold finish
- Refrigerated tortellini: hunt down cheese-filled or prosciutto ones, make sure the packs are plump and sealed tight
Easy How-To
- Serve with Sauce:
- Pile the tortellini onto a platter, set out marinara for dunking, and enjoy them while they’re crunchy and hot.
- Keep ‘Em Toasty:
- Whenever you’re working in batches, put finished pieces in a 200 degree oven so they stay warm while you fry up the rest.
- Air Fry and Flip:
- Cook them at 375°F for eight to ten minutes, giving them a shake halfway through so every side gets crunchy. Check on them early since air fryers are all a bit different.
- Arrange and Mist:
- Spray the fryer basket with cooking spray so nothing sticks, then space out the tortellini in a single layer. Don’t let them pile up, or they’ll stay soggy.
- Preheat That Fryer:
- Crank up your air fryer to 375°F, let it get hot for a few so you get that crispy texture.
- Toss With Flavor:
- Put your drained tortellini back in the bowl, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle on the Parmesan, salt, garlic powder, and herbs. Gently mix with a spatula so every piece gets coated.
- Soften Tortellini:
- Pour boiling water over the cold tortellini in a big bowl. Let them hang out for three minutes—just enough to soften, not cook. Drain them well so they don’t get mushy.
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I go heavy on the Parmesan—just can’t get enough—so it’s usually a double batch in my house because my crew fights for the crunchiest pieces every time.
How to Store
Pop leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge, and they’ll stay crisp about two days. Want them back to their crunchy best? A couple minutes in the air fryer and they’re as good as new.
Swap Ingredients
Any stuffed tortellini works, not just cheese or prosciutto—think spinach-ricotta or even spicy sausage varieties. No Italian seasoning? Combine dried oregano, basil, thyme, or whatever you’ve got. Any hard aged cheese slips in for Parmesan—try Pecorino Romano if you want it extra salty.
How to Serve
Serve these up with a bowl of warm marinara or dip into whatever sauce you’re loving—creamy pesto, ranch, or a punchy garlic aioli work too. They’re just right for parties, or tuck a few in lunchboxes for a treat. Pair alongside soup or salads as a crunchy twist.
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Fun Backstory
Northern Italy first started stuffing tortellini with yummy cheese and meat. It’s all about highlighting cozy, layered flavors. Doing them in the air fryer puts a new American spin that’s perfect for our snack-loving ways.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen tortellini for this method?
Yeah, frozen tortellini totally work. Just thaw and cook them in boiling water like you do with the ones from the fridge.
- → What sauces pair well with crispy tortellini?
Marinara is always a hit, but you can dip them in pesto, Alfredo, or even a creamy garlic aioli if you want.
- → How do I store leftovers for later?
Let those tortellini cool off, put them in a sealed container, and stick them in the fridge. When you're ready, toss them back in the air fryer to crisp 'em up again.
- → Can I use other types of filled pasta?
Definitely! Stuffed pastas like ravioli get just as crunchy—use the same steps and ingredients.
- → What is the ideal air fryer temperature and cooking time?
Set your air fryer to 375°F and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. Shake them halfway through so they crisp evenly.