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If you’re craving something crunchy and simple any time of day, these air fryer tortellini hit the spot. They’re fun to eat and only take a few minutes in your air fryer. Dunk them into warm marinara and you've got a snack everyone will want. Kids and adults love grabbing them for movie nights and game days.
I tossed these together on a slow Saturday and now I make them all the time whenever we want something crunchy and cheesy with almost no hassle. They always disappear fast.
Yummy Ingredients
- Cooking spray: Spritz the air fryer so nothing sticks and it helps the tortellini brown right Try a plain oil spray to keep it simple
- Grated Parmesan: That salty cheesy layer on top Go for freshly grated if you can—it melts better and tastes amazing
- Salt: Helps everything pop, especially a fine sea salt so it blends in
- Italian seasoning: All the classic herbs in one scoop Crush it between your fingers to wake up the smell
- Garlic powder: Punches up the savory taste Grab a new container if it’s been sitting around for a while
- Olive oil: Coats the pasta so it crisps and all the seasonings stick Try extra virgin for a boost of flavor
- Refrigerated tortellini: Cheese or prosciutto filled, any kind works Make sure they’re sealed tight and plump, straight from the fridge section
Simple How-To Guide
- Serve and Dip:
- Once they’re golden, pile them on a plate Put out a bowl of red sauce for dunking Enjoy while they’re warm and crispy
- Keep Toasty for Batches:
- If you’re making lots, stash the first batch in an oven on low (about 200°F) while you air fry more
- Get Them Cooking:
- Spread out the tortellini in the air fryer basket Don’t crowd them, just a single layer Spritz the tops with cooking spray for the best crunch
- Crank Up the Heat:
- Fire up your air fryer to 375°F and give it a few minutes to get hot
- Mix and Toss:
- Drop the drained tortellini into a bowl Drizzle with olive oil Add all the spices and Parmesan Toss gently so every piece is coated
- Soften Up:
- Pour hot water over the cold tortellini in a bowl Let them sit for 3 minutes so they aren’t too chewy Drain them well, you want them dry
- Flip and Finish:
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes Flip them halfway so they crisp all over Peek at 8 minutes since all air fryers are a little different
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I use a heavy hand with Parmesan since we never get enough of that sharp cheese kick in our house. The kids will fight for the crunchiest bites, so I usually double up and make sure there’s plenty for everyone.
Smart Storage
Pop any leftovers into a sealed container in the fridge. They’ll keep their crunch for up to two days. When you want them hot again, air fry for a couple minutes—good as fresh!
Alternate Options
Switch up the flavor—try any kind of refrigerated tortellini, not just cheese or prosciutto. Go for spinach ricotta, spicy sausage, whatever you’ve got. If you’re out of Italian seasoning, mix some dried oregano, basil, and thyme or any herbs you like. Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or another dry aged cheese for a bit more bite.
How To Serve It
Try them with marinara or whatever dip you’re loving—ranch, creamy pesto, zesty garlic aioli. These work great as snacks at parties, or throw some next to soup or salad for a fun twist. Sometimes I even slip a few in the kids’ lunchboxes to surprise them.
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About the Dish
Tortellini come from northern Italy and are all about that mix of cheese or meat stuffed in dough. The air fryer version keeps their classic heart but adds a crispy American twist that makes them perfect for anyone who loves a crunchy snack.
FAQs About the Recipe
- → Can I use frozen tortellini for this method?
You sure can. Just thaw them out and let them soften in boiling water like you would with the chilled ones for best crunch.
- → What sauces pair well with crispy tortellini?
Marinara is classic, but these are just as tasty dipped in pesto, Alfredo, or a good garlic aioli.
- → How do I store leftovers for later?
Let them cool off, pop them in a sealed container, and keep in the fridge. Heat them back up in your air fryer for a few minutes when you want more crunch.
- → Can I use other types of filled pasta?
Definitely. Ravioli or any stuffed pasta does great with the same steps and flavors.
- → What is the ideal air fryer temperature and cooking time?
Heat your air fryer up to 375°F, cook the tortellini for around 8 to 10 minutes, and toss them midway to get that crunch all over.