Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Tortellini Bites Recipe

Introduction

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Tortellini Bites are an irresistible snack or appetizer featuring cheese-filled tortellini coated in a crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb crust. They are quick to prepare, perfect for entertaining, and delicious when served warm with marinara sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 package (9-12 oz) frozen cheese tortellini
• 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
• Olive oil, for frying
• Marinara sauce, for dipping
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the frozen cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool briefly.
2. Step 2: Prepare three shallow dishes: place the flour in the first dish, beat the eggs in the second, and mix the breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese in the third.
3. Step 3: Coat each tortellini by first dipping it in flour, shaking off excess, then dipping into the beaten eggs, and finally rolling it in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture until fully coated. Place coated tortellini on a plate.
4. Step 4: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, enough to cover the pan’s bottom. Fry tortellini in batches without overcrowding the pan, turning after 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy on all sides. Drain on paper towels.
5. Step 5: Arrange the crispy tortellini bites on a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh tortellini by reducing the cooking time to 1-2 minutes and handle gently when coating.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives and verify that the tortellini are gluten-free.
• To bake instead of fry, place coated tortellini on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
• Press tortellini firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure an extra crunchy coating.

Storage

Store leftover tortellini bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness, or use an air fryer for best results.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini works well. Simply reduce the cooking time to 1-2 minutes or until they float to the surface and cool slightly before breading, as fresh pasta is more delicate.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely. Bake the breaded tortellini at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined tray lightly sprayed with cooking spray for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Tortellini Bites Recipe

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4.7 from 88 reviews

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Tortellini Bites are golden, crunchy, and cheesy little snacks made by breading cooked cheese tortellini with a Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, then frying them until perfectly crisp. Served with marinara sauce, they make an irresistible appetizer or party snack that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Tortellini Bites:

• 1 package (9-12 oz) frozen cheese tortellini
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil, for frying
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish and Serving:

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Marinara sauce, for dipping

Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the frozen cheese tortellini and cook for 3-5 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Coat the Tortellini: Dip each tortellini first in flour, shaking off excess, then in beaten eggs, and finally press firmly into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture to coat thoroughly. Place coated tortellini on a plate as you go.
4. Fry the Tortellini Bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, enough to cover the bottom. Fry tortellini in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve: Arrange the crispy bites on a platter, sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

• Do not overcook tortellini; it should be al dente to hold the coating well.
• Pressing the tortellini firmly into the breadcrumb mixture creates a crunchier crust.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives and ensure tortellini is gluten-free.
• You can bake the breaded tortellini at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, as a healthier alternative to frying.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.

Keywords: Parmesan crusted tortellini, fried tortellini bites, crispy tortellini appetizer, Italian snack, tortellini recipe, cheese tortellini bites