Description
Parmesan Tortellini Bites are crispy, golden-fried cheese tortellini coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder breadcrumbs. Served warm with marinara or pizza sauce, these bites make a delicious appetizer or snack that’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1 (12-oz.) bag fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp. onion powder
- 1/2 cup neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
- 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade marinara or pizza sauce
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tortellini according to package directions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain thoroughly and transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to cool and dry.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs until well blended. In a third shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs, 1/2 cup Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of kosher salt; whisk until evenly mixed.
- Coat Tortellini: Dredge each cooked tortellini first in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs. Finally, coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so it adheres well. Return the breaded tortellini to the wire rack.
- Fry Tortellini: Heat the neutral oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry the tortellini in batches, turning halfway through cooking, until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 1 minute per side. Remove and drain on the wire rack. Immediately season lightly with kosher salt while hot.
- Serve: Transfer the fried tortellini bites to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm alongside the marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cheese tortellini; cooking times may vary slightly.
- For an extra crispy crust, double coat by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Neutral oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil, are recommended for frying.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be reheated in a hot oven or air fryer to re-crisp.
- Marinara or pizza sauce can be homemade or store-bought depending on preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 pieces
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
