Oh, tortellini alfredo—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl, isn’t it? I stumbled upon this recipe one chilly evening, and it’s been a weeknight savior ever since. Picture this:
delicate pasta pillows swimming in a creamy sauce that’s so rich, it’s almost sinful. Perfect for when you’re craving something indulgent yet easy—like that sweater you keep reaching for when the autumn breeze starts to bite.
Steps
- Begin by melting butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Gradually whisk in flour, then slowly pour in the half and half, continuously whisking. Increase the heat slightly to bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce it to low.
- Slowly add the grated Parmesan and Romano cheese to the sauce, stirring until fully incorporated. Let the sauce simmer on low heat while you prepare the pasta.
- In a separate large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook broccoli florets for 2 minutes, then add tortellini and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or according to package instructions.
- Drain the boiled broccoli and tortellini, then add them to the Alfredo sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Finish the dish by garnishing with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your meal with a side of garlic bread for a complete dining experience.
Ingredients
- 3 cups of broccoli florets
- 20 oz. refrigerated Cheese Tortellini
- 6 tablespoons of high-quality butter
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 3 cups of half and half
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese (at room temperature)
- ½ cup of grated Romano cheese (at room temperature)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Nutritional Values
Calories: 643kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 38g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Cholesterol: 125mg | Sodium: 808mg | Potassium: 316mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1161IU | Vitamin C: 42mg | Calcium: 475mg | Iron: 3mg
FAQ
- Can I substitute the tortellini with another type of pasta?
- Yes, you can replace tortellini with any pasta of your choice. However, tortellini is recommended for its cheese-filled goodness, which adds extra flavor to the dish.
- What if I don’t have half and half for the Alfredo sauce?
- It’s best to use half and half for its richness. Substituting with milk isn’t recommended as the lower fat content may lead to curdling.
- Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
- Absolutely! This dish is versatile and can be enhanced with broccoli or leftover chicken. You may also try different tortellini fillings like sun-dried tomato, pesto, or spinach.
- How should I store and reheat leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, reheat using a homemade double boiler to maintain the pasta’s original texture.
- What are some tips for making the perfect Alfredo sauce?
- For the best results, use high-quality butter, freshly minced garlic, and cheese grated from a block. Let the sauce thicken by simmering it before adding the pasta.
Tips
- For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality butter and grate your own Parmesan and Romano cheese from a block. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s consistency.
- If you want the Alfredo sauce to be thicker, allow it to simmer and reduce slightly before adding the tortellini. This will help achieve your desired consistency without compromising the sauce’s rich flavor.
- Avoid substituting milk for half and half in the Alfredo sauce; the higher fat content in half and half prevents curdling and maintains a creamy texture.
- When reheating leftovers, use a makeshift double boiler by placing a bowl of pasta over a pot of steaming water. This method ensures even reheating and helps maintain the original quality of the dish.
Equipment
- Large Saucepan – For preparing the Alfredo sauce.
- Whisk – Essential for whisking the sauce ingredients together smoothly.
- Large Pot – For boiling the tortellini and broccoli.
- Metal or Glass Bowl – Useful for reheating leftovers using a double boiler method.
- Double Boiler (optional) – While a makeshift double boiler using a bowl over a pot can work, you might want to purchase an actual double boiler for convenience in reheating.
