This is a classic Italian tortellini with garlic sage butter sauce recipe. It's simple yet packed with flavors. The tender tortellini, coated in a rich and aromatic butter sauce with the depth of garlic and sage, is truly comfort food at its finest.
All these ingredients are quite common and can be found at any standard supermarket. However, if you have never bought Tortellini before, they are usually in the refrigerated aisle with other fresh pastas. Ground sage, a bit less common, can be located in the spices aisle.
Ingredients for Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
Butter: The base of the sauce, it adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor.
Garlic: Adds an aromatic and flavorful punch to the butter sauce.
Ground sage: Provides a warm and earthy flavor. It pairs well with butter and enhances the taste of the tortellini.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Fresh ground black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and complexity to the sauce.
Meat-filled tortellini: The star ingredient. The meat filling combined with the garlic sage butter sauce creates a delightful flavor profile.
Flat-leaf parsley: For garnishing. It adds a touch of freshness to the dish.
One reader, Brody North says:
This tortellini with garlic sage butter sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and comforting. The garlic and sage butter sauce adds a delightful aroma and taste to the dish. It's a simple yet elegant recipe that's perfect for a cozy night in. Highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Making Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
How to prepare garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and finely mince them using a sharp knife or a garlic press.
How to cook tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
How to make garlic sage butter sauce: Melt the butter in a frying pan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden. Mash the garlic with the back of a wooden spoon. Stir in the ground sage, salt, and pepper.
How to toss tortellini with garlic sage butter sauce: After draining the cooked tortellini, return it to the pot. Add the prepared garlic sage butter sauce and chopped parsley. Toss the tortellini over low heat until thoroughly coated with the sauce.
How To Make Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
Enjoy a fancy yet easy-to-make tortellini dish made buttery and flavorful with a sauce made with sage, butter, garlic, and spices to taste.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 6tbspbutter
- 6clovesgarlic
- ½tspground sage
- 1tspsalt
- 1tspfresh ground black pepper
- 1lbfresh meat-filled tortellini,or frozen
- 2tbspflat-leaf parsley,chopped
Instructions
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In a medium frying pan, melt the butter over low heat.
-
Add the garlic and cook, stirring occasionally for 10 to 12 minutes, and mashing the garlic with the back of a wooden spoon, until it is soft and golden.
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Stir in the sage, salt, and pepper.
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In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the tortellini until just done, about 4 minutes for fresh, and 12 minutes for frozen.
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Drain the pasta and return to the pot.
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Add the butter and parsley and toss over low heat for about 1 minute until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the butter.
Nutrition
- Calories: 275.60kcal
- Fat: 22.01g
- Saturated Fat: 12.62g
- Trans Fat: 0.83g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.34g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.31g
- Carbohydrates: 15.12g
- Fiber: 3.44g
- Sugar: 3.38g
- Protein: 5.56g
- Cholesterol: 53.73mg
- Sodium: 330.01mg
- Calcium: 53.43mg
- Potassium: 290.33mg
- Iron: 1.46mg
- Vitamin A: 173.42µg
- Vitamin C: 6.11mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
When making the garlic sage butter sauce, it's important to cook the garlic on low heat to avoid burning. Burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the flavor of the sauce. Also, mashing the garlic with the back of a wooden spoon helps to release its aromatic oils, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, when tossing the tortellini in the butter sauce, ensure to do it over low heat. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors without getting overcooked.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Tortellini Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the garlic sage butter sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to use, simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked tortellini.
Use frozen tortellini: Opt for frozen tortellini instead of fresh to save time on preparation. Frozen tortellini cooks in just 12 minutes, allowing for a quicker meal preparation.
Multi-task: While the tortellini is cooking, prepare the garlic sage butter sauce simultaneously to expedite the cooking process.
Keep it simple: Consider using pre-made tortellini from the store to cut down on prep time and streamline the cooking process.
One-pot meal: Cook the tortellini and prepare the sauce in the same pot to minimize cleanup and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce Recipe
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a rich flavor and works well as a healthier alternative to butter in the sauce.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic, adding a unique twist to the sauce.
ground sage - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can offer a similar earthy and aromatic flavor, complementing the dish with its herbaceous notes.
tortellini - Substitute with ravioli: Ravioli can be a suitable replacement, offering a similar pasta texture and the option to choose different fillings to customize the dish.
flat-leaf parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can provide a fragrant and slightly sweet flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Presenting Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
Elevate the plating: Arrange the tortellini in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring each piece is visible and inviting. This will create a visually appealing presentation that showcases the beauty of the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the tortellini to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness. The vibrant green hues will enhance the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts on top of the tortellini to introduce a delightful crunch, adding a layer of complexity to the dish.
Utilize high-quality serving ware: Present the tortellini on elegant, minimalist plates to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to take center stage, creating a sophisticated and refined presentation.
Accentuate with a drizzle: Drizzle a small amount of the garlic sage butter sauce around the edge of the plate, creating a visually stunning and appetizing presentation that showcases the flavors of the dish.
Consider the negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the tortellini to be the focal point while maintaining a balanced and visually appealing presentation.
Add a touch of elegance with edible flowers: Introduce a delicate touch by placing a small edible flower, such as a nasturtium or pansy, on top of the tortellini, adding a sophisticated and artistic element to the dish.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the tortellini in a symmetrical and balanced manner on the plate, creating a visually pleasing and harmonious presentation that reflects precision and attention to detail.
Essential Tools for Making Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, typically used for making sauces, boiling liquids, or cooking grains.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is a versatile kitchen tool used for stirring, mixing, and tasting various dishes. It is gentle on cookware and does not conduct heat, making it suitable for use in hot liquids.
Colander: A colander is a bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations or holes for draining liquids from food, such as pasta or vegetables.
Frying pan: A frying pan, also known as a skillet, is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It typically has a long handle and sloped sides.
Pasta pot: A pasta pot is a large, deep pot with a strainer insert for cooking and draining pasta. It allows for easy draining of the pasta without using a separate colander.
Garlic press: A garlic press is a handheld kitchen tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves. It is designed to extract the pulp and juice from the garlic while leaving the skin behind.
Grater: A grater is a kitchen utensil with sharp-edged perforations used for shredding or grating foods such as cheese, vegetables, or citrus zest.
Tongs: Tongs are a versatile kitchen tool with two arms and a pivot at one end, used for gripping and lifting food items such as pasta, salad, or meat.
Knife: A knife is an essential kitchen tool used for slicing, chopping, and mincing ingredients. Different types of knives, such as chef's knives, paring knives, and serrated knives, serve various culinary purposes.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients. It helps protect countertops and keeps knives sharp.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure ingredients such as flour, sugar, and spices in cooking and baking recipes.
Stove: A stove is a cooking appliance that provides heat for cooking. It typically consists of burners or heating elements for cooking food in pots and pans.
Storing and Freezing Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
Let the tortellini cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the pasta from becoming soggy and help maintain its texture.
To store leftover tortellini with garlic sage butter sauce in the refrigerator:
- Transfer the cooled pasta and sauce to an airtight container.
- Seal the container tightly to prevent air from entering and causing the pasta to dry out.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze tortellini with garlic sage butter sauce for longer storage:
- Divide the cooled pasta and sauce into individual serving-sized portions.
- Place each portion in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
When ready to enjoy the frozen tortellini:
- Remove the desired portion from the freezer and transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
- Alternatively, you can thaw the pasta in the microwave using the defrost setting, stirring occasionally to ensure even thawing.
- Once thawed, reheat the tortellini with garlic sage butter sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.
- If the sauce appears too thick after thawing, add a splash of pasta water or chicken broth to thin it out and restore its original consistency.
How To Reheat Leftover Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
Reheat the tortellini in the garlic sage butter sauce on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring gently until heated through. This method ensures that the pasta and sauce are evenly reheated and the flavors meld together beautifully.
For a quick and easy reheating option, place the leftover tortellini and sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the pasta to become rubbery.
If you have a bit more time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer the tortellini and sauce to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the pasta and allows the flavors to develop further.
For a crispy twist, reheat the tortellini and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top and place the skillet under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. This adds a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
If you have leftover tortellini without the sauce, boil a pot of water, drop the pasta in for 30-60 seconds until heated through, then drain and toss with a bit of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. You can then add the reheated garlic sage butter sauce and gently toss to combine.
Interesting Fact About Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
The garlic sage butter sauce in this recipe is a classic Italian combination that adds a rich and savory flavor to the tortellini. It's a simple yet delicious way to elevate the dish and create a comforting meal.
Is Making Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce at Home Cost-Effective?
This tortellini with garlic sage butter sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and readily available, making it budget-friendly. The use of basic pantry staples like butter, garlic, and sage keeps the cost low. Additionally, the recipe yields a substantial amount, making it suitable for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, depending on the quality of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10. This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and is an economical choice for a satisfying pasta dish.
Is This Tortellini Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
The tortellini with garlic sage butter sauce recipe is a delicious and indulgent dish, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of butter (6 tbsp), which is high in saturated fat and calories.
- Garlic, while known for its health benefits, is used in a large quantity (6 cloves) and is cooked in butter, potentially diminishing its nutritional value.
- The recipe does not include any vegetables or fiber-rich ingredients, making it a less balanced meal.
- Fresh meat-filled tortellini, depending on the filling, can be high in fat and calories.
However, the recipe does have some positive aspects:
- Fresh parsley is used, which is a good source of vitamins and minerals.
- The dish is homemade, allowing for better control over the ingredients compared to processed or restaurant meals.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter used in the sauce, or replace some of it with a healthier alternative like olive oil.
- Increase the amount of herbs and spices, such as sage and parsley, to add flavor without relying heavily on fat.
- Add some vegetables to the dish, such as spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Choose a leaner meat filling for the tortellini, such as chicken or turkey, or opt for a vegetarian filling like ricotta and spinach.
- Use whole wheat or spinach tortellini to increase the fiber content of the dish.
- Serve the tortellini with a side salad to add more vegetables and balance the meal.
Editor's Opinion on Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
The tortellini with garlic sage butter sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The slow-cooked garlic infuses the butter with a rich, nutty taste, complemented by the earthy sage. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, and the addition of parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note. The tortellini, cooked to perfection, provides a satisfying texture to the dish. Overall, this recipe offers a comforting and elegant dish that is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and simplicity.
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Why trust this Tortellini with Garlic Sage Butter Sauce Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience with its rich and flavorful garlic-sage butter sauce. The aromatic blend of butter, garlic, and sage creates a tantalizing symphony of flavors that will elevate your dish. The use of fresh meat-filled tortellini ensures a satisfying and indulgent meal. With the addition of flat-leaf parsley, this dish promises a burst of freshness and vibrant color. Trust in the quality of these ingredients to deliver a truly exceptional culinary experience.
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