Millie'S Three Cheese Tortellini
Creamy, cheesy tortellini baked with mozzarella and fresh parsley, offering rich flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package directions, drain reserving 1/4 cup cooking liquid.
- Put tortellini back in the cooking pot.
- Add softened cream cheese and butter.
- Mix over low heat until tortellini is well coated, adding reserved cooking water if needed to create a creamy sauce.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 450°F (232°C) until cheese is melted and golden, about 5-10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of milk or more reserved pasta water. If you can't find cheese-stuffed tortellini, any stuffed pasta will work well. For a healthier twist, try using low-fat cream cheese and butter. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor, so don't hesitate to add basil or thyme along with parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner. Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. For a vegetarian twist, browse more Italian recipes that highlight seasonal vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Millie'S Three Cheese Tortellini contains roughly 771 calories, with 17g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 515mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the tortellini mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just add the mozzarella right before baking. If storing longer, consider freezing the unbaked casserole. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream cheese, you can use ricotta cheese or a mix of Greek yogurt and cream for a lighter option. This will change the flavor slightly, but it will still provide a creamy texture.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this dish, simply use gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer gluten-free pasta options that taste great. Just ensure your other ingredients, like butter and cream cheese, are also gluten-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).