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Crispy Parmesan Fried Tortellini

Crispy Parmesan Fried Tortellini Recipe

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Crispy Fried Tortellini are golden, cheesy, and perfectly crunchy, paired with a simple tomato basil dipping sauce for extra flavor. This fun appetizer makes a crowd-pleasing twist on pasta night or a tasty addition to any game-day spread.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fried Tortellini:

4 cups tortellini, fresh or frozen

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

Salt and pepper, to taste

Oil for frying (olive or vegetable oil)

For the Tomato Basil Dipping Sauce:

1/2 can canned tomatoes

1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt, to taste

Pinch of sugar (optional)

1 tablespoon dried or fresh basil (or to taste)

Ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Tortellini:

  1. Cook tortellini in salted water according to package instructions (2–3 minutes until they float). Drain and let cool slightly.
  2. Set up breading stations: Bowl 1 – Whisk egg with a pinch of salt and pepper. Bowl 2 – Mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan.
  3. Dip tortellini into the egg, then coat in breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
  4. In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium heat until shimmering.
  5. Fry tortellini in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
  6. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Make the Tomato Sauce:

  1. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add canned tomatoes (with juice) and gently crush if whole.
  3. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and a pinch of sugar if desired.
  4. Simmer over low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  5. Optionally blend for a smooth sauce or leave it chunky.
  6. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

 

To Serve:

  1. Serve hot with the tomato basil sauce or other favorites like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli.
  • Author: Little Party Pixie
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers