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Crispy Parmesan Fried Tortellini

Featured in Finger Foods and Party Snacks.

This Crispy Parmesan Fried Tortellini recipe elevates regular cheese tortellini into an irresistible appetizer. The tortellini is first cooked until al dente, then coated in a triple-layer breading of flour, eggs, and a seasoned mixture of Italian breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. The seasoning blend includes garlic powder and Italian herbs for enhanced flavor. Each tortellini is fried to golden-brown perfection, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining the tender pasta and cheese filling inside. The result is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the comfort of pasta with the satisfying crunch of fried food, perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
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Updated on Fri, 28 Feb 2025 02:18:20 GMT
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Crispy Parmesan Fried Tortellini | quickierecipe.com

Store-bought cheese tortellini transforms into extraordinary bite-sized appetizers when coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried until perfectly golden and crisp. These parmesan fried tortellini deliver an irresistible contrast between crunchy exterior and tender, cheese-filled pasta interior that keeps everyone reaching for more. The combination of Italian herbs, savory parmesan, and creamy cheese filling creates crowd-pleasing morsels perfect for gatherings of all sizes.

I discovered this addictive appetizer during an experimental cooking session before a neighborhood gathering. After testing several coating variations, this version with herb-seasoned panko and parmesan created the perfect crispy shell around tender tortellini. My guests devoured the entire batch in minutes, immediately requesting the recipe and suggesting I make double portions for future events.

Essential Ingredients

  • Tortellini: Serves as the perfect foundation—choose cheese-filled varieties for classic flavor or experiment with other fillings for interesting variations.
  • Panko breadcrumbs: Create superior crispiness compared to regular breadcrumbs—their larger, airier structure develops exceptional crunch during frying.
  • Parmesan cheese: Contributes both savory depth and golden color to the coating—freshly grated varieties melt perfectly into the crust while adding distinctive umami notes.

Preparation Method

Pasta Preparation:
Cook your tortellini precisely according to package directions but aim for the minimum recommended time ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and spread on paper towels allowing surface moisture to evaporate completely.
Breading Station:
Arrange three breading components in shallow bowls: seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko, herbs, and parmesan.
Systematic Coating:
Dip tortellini in flour, then egg, then seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere crumbs fully.
Careful Frying:
Heat oil to precisely 365°F. Fry in small batches, turning halfway through cooking for even golden color.
Proper Draining:
Remove fried tortellini using a slotted spoon, transferring to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Easy Crispy Parmesan Fried Tortellini | quickierecipe.com

My neighbor initially questioned whether fried pasta could possibly taste good until she sampled these at a holiday gathering. After her third helping and request for the recipe, she acknowledged that transforming familiar ingredients through different cooking methods creates entirely new experiences. Now she prepares these regularly for her teenage children and their friends, appreciating how quickly they come together despite their impressive appearance and taste.

Storage Suggestions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness.

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Delicious Crispy Parmesan Fried Tortellini | quickierecipe.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the breaded tortellini up to 2 hours ahead and fry just before serving.
→ Can I use an air fryer instead of deep frying?
Yes, air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
→ What other dipping sauces work well?
Try alfredo sauce, pesto, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli as alternatives to marinara sauce.
→ Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, but thaw and cook them first, then ensure they're completely dry before breading.
→ How do I keep the breading from falling off?
Pat the cooked tortellini completely dry before breading, and press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto each piece.

Crispy Parmesan Fried Tortellini

Cheese-filled tortellini coated in seasoned Parmesan breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown, served with marinara sauce for dipping.

Prep Time
25 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes
By: Meryem


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 6 Servings (36 fried tortellini)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Pasta Base

01 1 pound fresh or refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini, the star of our show

→ Coating Station

02 1 cup all-purpose flour, for the first layer of our crispy coating
03 2 large eggs, well beaten until smooth
04 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs, bringing that perfect crunch
05 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for that irresistible savory kick

→ Seasonings

06 1 teaspoon garlic powder, for that aromatic touch
07 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, bringing Mediterranean flair
08 Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to your taste

→ For Cooking & Serving

09 Vegetable oil for frying, enough for a 1-inch depth
10 Your favorite marinara sauce, warmed for dipping

Instructions

Step 01

Start by cooking your tortellini in boiling water until they're just al dente - they'll cook a bit more when fried. Drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels - this step is crucial for a crispy result!

Step 02

Set up three shallow bowls: first with flour, second with beaten eggs, and third with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Think of it as creating a spa treatment for your tortellini!

Step 03

Take each tortellini through its three-step makeover: first a light dusting of flour, then a dip in the egg wash, and finally a thorough roll in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated but not clumpy.

Step 04

Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, drop a breadcrumb in - it should sizzle gently and float to the top.

Step 05

Working in small batches (don't crowd the pan!), fry your tortellini for 2-3 minutes per side until they're beautifully golden brown and irresistibly crispy. Think of it as giving each piece its moment to shine!

Step 06

Transfer your crispy treasures to a paper towel-lined plate. While they're still hot, give them a light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if you're feeling indulgent.

Step 07

Arrange your golden-brown beauties on a serving platter with warm marinara sauce on the side. These are best enjoyed while hot and crispy!

Notes

  1. These crispy bites are perfect as an appetizer or party snack - they're always the first to disappear from the buffet table!
  2. Make sure to maintain the oil temperature between batches for consistently crispy results
  3. You can prep the coated tortellini ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before frying

Tools You'll Need

  • Large pot for boiling tortellini
  • Deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for frying
  • Three shallow bowls for dredging station
  • Spider strainer or slotted spoon
  • Paper towels and cooling rack
  • Cooking thermometer (recommended)

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains wheat (flour, breadcrumbs)
  • Contains dairy (cheese tortellini, Parmesan)
  • Contains eggs

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 14 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 38 g
  • Protein: 12 g