Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve come to the right place! This Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage is one of my all-time favorites. It’s incredibly simple yet packs a punch of flavor that makes it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The combination of buttery mushrooms and crispy sage transforms store-bought tortellini into something truly special, and I can promise you, every bite will have you smiling.

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick dinner or serving it at a gathering with friends, it always impresses. Plus, it’s made with wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need something delicious fast.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy cheese tortellini paired with savory mushrooms and crispy sage.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep all your ingredients ahead of time, so dinner comes together seamlessly on the day.
• Gourmet Flavor: With just a few simple ingredients, this dish elevates grocery store tortellini to gourmet status.
• Comfort Food: The rich flavors of butter and cheese create the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our delightful dish! You won’t need anything fancy—just good-quality cheese tortellini and a few pantry staples.

For the Main Dish

• 1 (20 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage (chopped)
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
• 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Swap out parmesan for pecorino or your favorite hard cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some heavy cream or a splash of vegetable broth for a richer sauce.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your dish!

How to Make Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling away, add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked tortellini will give you that delightful chewy texture we all love!

Step 2: Prep the Flavor Makers

While your tortellini cooks, slice the cremini mushrooms and chop the fresh sage. Preparing these ingredients ahead of time helps everything come together smoothly when it’s time to sauté.

Step 3: Crisp the Sage

When the tortellini has about 6-7 minutes left to cook, heat 1 tablespoon of butter along with the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped sage. Sauté for about a minute until it becomes crispy. This step adds an aromatic flavor that lifts your dish!

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms

Remove the crispy sage from the pan and set it aside. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic along with another tablespoon of butter. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they’re beautifully browned and fragrant. This brings out their natural sweetness which complements our dish perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your tortellini is cooked al dente, drain it well and add it to the skillet with remaining butter and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Toss gently until everything is nicely coated in that luscious buttery sauce, then stir back in those crispy sage leaves. Season with salt and pepper as needed before serving immediately—trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Pro Tips for Making Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips to make it even easier!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh sage and mushrooms will elevate the flavor of your dish significantly. They bring out the best in this pasta, making every bite taste gourmet.

• Don’t overcook the tortellini: Keep an eye on the cooking time for the tortellini; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for al dente for that perfect bite.

• Sauté at the right temperature: Cooking the mushrooms on medium-high heat allows them to brown nicely without becoming soggy. This enhances their flavor and adds a lovely texture to your dish.

• Reserve some pasta water: If you find that your sauce is too thick after adding the tortellini, a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it up without compromising flavor.

• Experiment with cheese: While parmesan is classic, feel free to try other hard cheeses like pecorino or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, giving your dish a unique twist.

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

Presenting your dish beautifully can make mealtime feel extra special. Here are some ideas to serve this delicious tortellini!

Garnishes

• Freshly chopped herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional sage on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon zest: Grating a little lemon zest over the dish brightens up the flavors and adds an aromatic touch.
• Cracked black pepper: A few turns of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also gives an appealing visual contrast.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for scooping up any extra butter sauce from your plate. The crispy exterior and soft interior create a delightful combination.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the tortellini beautifully while providing some crunch.

• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Lightly steamed veggies add color and nutrients to your meal. Their crispness pairs well with the creamy texture of the pasta.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer an earthy sweetness that balances out the flavors in your dish. Try carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini tossed with olive oil and herbs.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re all set to impress family or friends with this delightful Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage! Enjoy every savory bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the tortellini to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the cooked tortellini dish cool down completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, try to remove as much air as possible from the bags.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage vegan?

Yes! To make this dish vegan, substitute the cheese tortellini with a plant-based version, use vegan butter instead of regular butter, and skip the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How do I store leftover Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

What type of mushrooms work best in Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage?

Cremini mushrooms are fantastic for this recipe due to their rich flavor. However, you can also use button mushrooms or shiitake for a different taste experience!

Can I add other vegetables to my Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté them along with the mushrooms!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage! It’s truly a comforting dish that elevates simple ingredients into something special. Whether you’re preparing it for dinner or meal prepping for your week ahead, it’s bound to impress. Happy cooking!