Description
Parmesan Tortellini Bites are crispy, golden-fried cheese tortellini coated in a flavorful mix of Parmesan, garlic, and onion powder. Served with a side of marinara or pizza sauce, these bites make a perfect appetizer or snack that combines cheesy goodness with a satisfying crunch.
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 canola or vegetable oil) for frying
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade marinara or pizza sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Cook tortellini: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tortellini, stirring occasionally, until al dente according to the package directions. Drain well, then transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly.
- Prepare coating stations: Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs until blended. In a third shallow bowl, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt; whisk until well mixed.
- Coat tortellini: Dredge each tortellini in the flour to lightly coat, then dip into the beaten eggs, shaking off excess. Gently roll and press each tortellini into the bread crumb mixture to ensure an even coating. Place the coated tortellini back on the wire rack.
- Fry tortellini bites: Heat the neutral oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Working in batches to avoid crowding, fry the tortellini, turning once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 1 minute per side. Return fried tortellini to the rack and immediately season with salt.
- Serve: Transfer the crispy tortellini bites to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with marinara or pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen tortellini; just adjust cooking time if frozen according to the package instructions.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior and prevent sogginess.
- Work in small batches when frying to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.
- Leftover bites can be reheated in a skillet or air fryer to retain crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/2 cup (about 6-8 pieces)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
