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Crispy air fryer tortellini is the ultimate crunchy snack or easy appetizer that wins over everyone who tries it. I love making these on game days or as a fun twist for movie nights and am always surprised how fast the bowl empties. They are simple to prep with just a handful of ingredients and pair perfectly with a good marinara dip.
I first made these for my kids when they wanted something different than chips and now they beg for them every week especially for lunchbox treats or as a little after school surprise.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated cheese or prosciutto tortellini: this is the star and gives each bite a cheesy or savory filling choose a brand with a good pasta texture and fresh filling
- Olive oil: helps crisp up the tortellini and adds flavor use extra virgin for the best taste
- Garlic powder: brings out a savory aroma look for a fresh and finely milled powder for even coating
- Italian seasoning: adds depth and a herby punch check the blend for strong basil and oregano notes
- Salt: enhances all the flavors sea salt or kosher salt works best
- Grated Parmesan cheese: gives a rich nutty finish buy a wedge and grate it yourself for more flavor
- Cooking spray: keeps the tortellini from sticking and gives a golden crunch choose a neutral spray with no added flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Tortellini:
- Place the tortellini in a large bowl and pour enough boiling water to cover. Let them sit for three minutes so they soften slightly but do not overcook. Drain thoroughly so no water remains.
- Season the Tortellini:
- Return the drained tortellini to the bowl. Add olive oil garlic powder Italian seasoning salt and Parmesan. Gently toss using a spatula until every tortellini is evenly coated with the seasonings and cheese.
- Preheat and Spray the Air Fryer:
- Heat your air fryer to one hundred ninety degrees Celsius. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote even frying.
- Air Fry in Batches:
- Arrange the seasoned tortellini in the basket in a single layer. Work in batches if needed so none are stacked. Cook for eight to ten minutes shaking or tossing halfway until the tortellini are golden and crispy all over.
- Keep Warm:
- Transfer each finished batch to an oven preheated to ninety five degrees Celsius. This keeps them warm and crisp while you cook the rest.
- Serve and Dip:
- Serve the crispy tortellini hot with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping. They are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch.
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Crisping up the tortellini was a total game changer for me. Parmesan is my personal favorite ingredient here because it fuses into the pasta as it fries and makes the whole bite extra flavorful. One of my best memories was teaching my cousin how to make these for her first holiday party and watching everyone come back for seconds.
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Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at one hundred eighty degrees Celsius for three minutes to refresh the crunch. Avoid microwaving as it softens the coating.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap cheese tortellini for spinach or any flavor you like. If you are out of Italian seasoning try a mix of dried basil oregano and a dash of crushed red pepper. For a dairy free version use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Serving Suggestions
These are perfect alongside a platter of fresh veggies and dip or served as party finger food with a trio of sauces like pesto ranch and marinara. I have even added extras to salads for a crouton like crunch.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of tortellini works best?
Refrigerated cheese or prosciutto tortellini deliver the best texture after air frying. They crisp well and hold their shape.
- → Why soak tortellini in boiling water first?
A quick soak softens the pasta, ensuring even cooking and preventing a chewy interior when air fried.
- → Can I use different seasonings?
Yes, swap in your favorite dried herbs, a pinch of chili flakes, or even smoked paprika for varied flavor profiles.
- → How do I keep the tortellini crispy before serving?
Place finished tortellini in a low oven (around 95°C) to keep them warm and maintain crispiness between batches.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well?
Classic or spicy marinara is ideal, but you can also try pesto, creamy garlic dip, or a tangy aioli for a twist.