These tasty Parmesan Crusted Tortellini Bites are crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside! They’re perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer that everyone will love.
I can’t resist popping these little bites into my mouth while watching my favorite show. They disappear fast, so make sure to save some for your guests—if you can! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I like using refrigerated cheese tortellini because it cooks quickly and has a nice flavor. If you can’t find cheese tortellini, try spinach or mushroom varieties for a tasty twist!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a great crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but the texture might not be quite as crispy. You can also make your own by toasting slices of bread and crushing them.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, Pecorino Romano works well, or you could use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Eggs: The eggs help the coating stick. If you’re vegan, you can substitute with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or some unsweetened applesauce.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Getting that beautiful golden-brown crust is key for these bites! Here are a few tips to ensure your coating comes out perfect.
- After boiling the tortellini, let them cool a little. This helps the coating stick better.
- When breading, ensure each tortellini is well-coated in flour, then egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure the crumbs adhere well.
- Use a thermometer to keep your oil temperature consistent at around 350°F (175°C). If it’s too cold, the bites will soak up oil; too hot can burn them.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Tortellini Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and cooking time. You’ll spend a few minutes boiling the tortellini, breading them, and frying them till they’re perfectly crispy. Then, just serve them with marinara sauce for a delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook them according to the package instructions until they’re al dente, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once they’re done, drain them, and let them cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Next, prepare three shallow bowls to get your breading ready. In one bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper together well.
3. Bread the Tortellini:
Time to coat the tortellini! Take each piece and first dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess flour. Then, dive it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off, and finally, coat it thoroughly in the panko-Parmesan mixture. Make sure each tortellini is well-coated for the best crunch!
4. Fry to Perfection:
Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it’s hot (around 350°F or 175°C). Carefully fry the coated tortellini in batches, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy, which will take about 2-3 minutes per batch. Be careful not to crowd the pan!
5. Drain Excess Oil:
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked tortellini bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Arrange the crispy tortellini bites on a pretty serving platter. You can sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra touch.
7. Enjoy with Marinara:
Serve these delightful bites immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping. They’re perfect as a snack or appetizer, and they won’t last long on the plate!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Parmesan Crusted Tortellini Bites!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the frozen tortellini in the refrigerator overnight or cook them directly from frozen according to the package instructions. They may need an additional minute or two in boiling water to cook fully.
What Oil Works Best for Frying?
Olive oil or vegetable oil works well for frying. Olive oil adds a nice flavor, while vegetable oil has a higher smoke point if you prefer a neutral taste. Canola or sunflower oil are also great alternatives!
How Do I Store Leftover Tortellini Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded tortellini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
