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–+ servings
Fresh tortellini.

Easy Fresh Cheese Tortellini (A Homemade Pasta Recipe)

Allie Hagerty
Tender homemade pasta filled with a creamy ricotta-Parmesan mixture, cooked until just tender, and perfect with any sauce — this fresh cheese tortellini is an Italian classic you can make in your own kitchen.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours
Course Pasta
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • fork
  • Rolling pin or pasta machine
  • Knife or round cookie cutter
  • Pastry brush
  • Baking Sheet
  • plastic wrap
  • Large pot
  • Slotted Spoon

Ingredients
  

Pasta Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Filling:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Instructions
 

Make the Pasta Dough:

  • On a clean surface, mound the flour and create a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well, add the olive oil and salt.
  • Using a fork, gently whisk the eggs, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

  • In a bowl, mix together ricotta, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth. Set aside.

Roll Out the Dough:

  • Divide the rested dough into 4 pieces. Using a pasta roller or rolling pin, roll each piece into a thin sheet, about 1/16-inch thick. Dust with flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Fill and Shape the Tortellini:

  • Cut the dough into 2-inch squares. Place about 1/2 teaspoon of filling in the center of each square.
  • Fold each square into a triangle, pressing the edges to seal. Bring the two bottom corners of the triangle together and press to form the tortellini shape.

Cook the Tortellini:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the top. Drain and serve with your favorite sauce.

Notes

Expert Tips for Perfect Tortellini

  • Cover the Dough: Keep pasta sheets under a clean kitchen towel while shaping to prevent them from drying out.
  • Don’t Overfill: Use the smallest amount of filling needed to avoid tearing the pasta. Overstuffing is the number one rookie mistake.
  • Seal Tightly: Press edges firmly and push out any air pockets so the tortellini don’t burst in the pot.
  • Season the Water: Always cook in well-salted water to flavor the pasta from the inside out.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Boil in batches so the tortellini don’t stick together.
  • Handle with Care: Use a slotted spoon instead of dumping into a colander to protect the delicate shapes.
  • Serve Right Away: Fresh pasta is best enjoyed immediately after cooking!

Serving Suggestions

  • Wine Pairing: Pair with a crisp, chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the richness of the filling.
  • Cozy & Comforting: Toss in brown butter with fresh sage for an autumn-inspired dish.
  • Fresh & Bright: Serve with a light tomato sauce and fresh basil for a vibrant flavor.
  • Luxurious Touch: Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of crispy pancetta.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Arrange uncooked tortellini in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze uncooked tortellini in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding about 1 extra minute to the boil time.
  • Leftovers: Cooked tortellini can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of sauce or butter. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery pasta.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 444kcalCarbohydrates: 51gProtein: 21gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 165mgSodium: 755mgPotassium: 202mgFiber: 2gSugar: 0.5gVitamin A: 563IUCalcium: 268mgIron: 4mg
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