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Creamy Asiago Cheese Tortellini

Enter the Creamy Asiago Cheese Tortellini—a dish that feels like a warm embrace from an Italian grandmother, yet comes together with the speed of a modern weeknight hack.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Fresh Cheese Tortellini: Look for the refrigerated kind; the texture is far superior to dried.
  • 1 cup Asiago Cheese: Grate it yourself! Pre-shredded cheese is coated in potato starch which can make your sauce gritty.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream: The key to that signature "luxurious" mouthfeel.
  • 1/2 cup Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds a savory depth that water just can't match.
  • The Aromatics: 2 cloves of minced garlic 1 tbsp butter, and 1 tbsp olive oil.
  • Finishing Touches: Salt pepper, and fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Instructions

  • Boil the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the tortellini until al dente (just tender with a slight bite). Drain them, but keep a splash of that starchy pasta water just in case.
  • Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter into the olive oil over medium heat. Add your garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes. You want it fragrant and soft, not brown or crispy.
  • Simmer the Base: Pour in the broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the heavy cream. Lower the heat slightly and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken and coat the back of your spoon.
  • The Cheese Fold: Gradually whisk in your freshly grated Asiago. Do this in handfuls, allowing each batch to melt completely before adding the next. This ensures a perfectly smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
  • The Great Combine: Toss your cooked tortellini into the skillet. Gently fold the pasta into the sauce so every piece is smothered. If the sauce feels too thick, add a tablespoon of that reserved pasta water.
  • Serve: Ladle into warm bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.