If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli is about to become your new go-to. Imagine pillowy cheese tortellini nestled with vibrant broccoli florets, all tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce and finished with a generous shower of Parmesan. This dish is irresistibly creamy yet bright, comes together in a flash, and makes both kids and adults swoon. Whether you’re craving something cozy or need to impress last-minute guests, Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli delivers every single time.

Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli is in its simplicity—each ingredient is chosen for maximum flavor, texture, or color. These essentials work together to create a dish that tastes far more decadent than the sum of its parts.

Cheese tortellini (1 pound, refrigerated): These tender pasta pillows are the heart of the dish, offering a rich, cheesy bite in every forkful.
Broccoli florets (3 cups, fresh or frozen): Broccoli brings color, crunch, and a hint of earthiness that balances the creamy sauce beautifully.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Butter creates a luscious base for the sauce, melding perfectly with garlic and Parmesan.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is a must for that irresistible aroma and kick of flavor.
Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Just a pinch adds subtle heat without overwhelming the dish—totally customizable.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding salty, nutty depth and a creamy texture.
Reserved pasta water (1/4 cup): This starchy liquid helps emulsify the sauce, making it luxuriously silky.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Seasoning brings out every flavor—don’t skimp on the final taste test.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Parsley adds a pop of freshness and a hint of color to finish the dish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli

Step 1: Boil the Tortellini and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions. For the last two minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets right into the same pot—this way, everything finishes together and the broccoli stays vibrant and tender-crisp. Reserve a little pasta water before draining; it’s the secret to a creamy sauce later!

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the tortellini and broccoli are doing their thing, melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and, if you like a little kick, the red pepper flakes. Sauté for just a minute or two, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and just golden—be careful not to let it brown!

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Add the drained tortellini and broccoli straight into the skillet with the garlic butter. Gently toss everything to coat, making sure every piece gets some garlicky goodness. Pour in the reserved pasta water and sprinkle over the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it all together until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and glossy.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Taste and add salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. Sometimes the Parmesan is salty enough, so always taste before adding extra. If you want, shower the finished dish with chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli warm and dig in immediately for maximum creaminess.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a handful of fresh parsley take Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli from delicious to showstopping. If you’re feeling fancy, a little lemon zest or toasted pine nuts add another layer of flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

This dish is satisfying on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, warm garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. The lightness of the sides balances the creamy richness of the tortellini and broccoli.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd, serve Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli in a big, shallow platter and let everyone help themselves. For date night or special occasions, plate it in individual pasta bowls and finish with a flourish of freshly cracked black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce will thicken as it cools, but it’s easy to revive when you’re ready to eat.

Freezing

While tortellini dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli if needed. Cool completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through, and finish with a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley to bring back that just-cooked magic.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh for Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli?

Absolutely! Just thaw the broccoli before adding it to the boiling water with the tortellini. It cooks up perfectly and still adds great color and flavor to the dish.

What protein can I add to make this more filling?

For a heartier meal, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even some crispy bacon. The mild flavors of Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli play well with all sorts of proteins.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten free?

You sure can! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free tortellini or pasta. Double-check your Parmesan and other ingredients to make sure they’re gluten free as well.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli ahead of time for a party?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the components in advance. Cook the tortellini and broccoli, make the garlic butter, and store separately. When guests arrive, toss everything together and finish with Parmesan for that irresistible creamy sauce.

How do I keep the tortellini from sticking together after draining?

Drizzle the cooked tortellini with a little olive oil and toss gently if you’re not mixing it with the sauce right away. This keeps the pasta from sticking and keeps the texture spot on.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dish that comes together so quickly and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli is that kind of recipe—easy, impressive, and utterly delicious. Give it a try, share it with someone you love, and watch it become a new favorite in your dinnertime rotation!

Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli Recipe

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4.8 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Broccoli is a quick and delicious vegetarian pasta dish that combines tender cheese tortellini and fresh broccoli florets in a creamy garlic butter sauce, topped with savory Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner and can be easily customized with additional proteins.

Ingredients

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Primary Ingredients

1 pound refrigerated cheese tortellini
3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup reserved pasta water
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Tortellini and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the tortellini and broccoli thoroughly.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, infusing the butter with flavor.
Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained tortellini and broccoli to the skillet. Toss gently to coat with the garlic butter, then stir in the reserved pasta water and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is evenly coated and the sauce is creamy.
Season and Garnish: Season the pasta mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For added protein, stir in cooked chicken or shrimp to the skillet with the tortellini.
If using frozen broccoli, thaw it before adding it to the boiling pasta water.
You can substitute fresh Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
Use gluten-free tortellini to adapt this recipe for gluten intolerance.
Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American