Description
Delight your guests with these crispy and cheesy Tortellini Party Snacks, perfect for any appetizer table. Baked to golden perfection and served with marinara dipping sauce, these bite-sized treats feature three-cheese tortellini coated in a flavorful herb and breadcrumb mixture, making them an irresistible crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 20-ounce refrigerated package three-cheese tortellini, boiled al dente
Coating
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 5 large eggs
- 5 tablespoons milk
- 2 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes
- A sprinkling of sea salt
- A few twists of freshly-ground black pepper
Garnishes and Dipping
- Drizzling of melted butter
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Sprinkling of red chili flakes
- Minced Italian parsley
- One 23.5-ounce jar of classic marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Set Up Dredging Stations: Prepare three bowls: Bowl #1 with 1 1/4 cup flour, Bowl #2 with 5 eggs and 5 tablespoons milk whisked together, and Bowl #3 with 2 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs, 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan, 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1 teaspoon red chili flakes, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper mixed well.
- Coat Tortellini in Flour: Working in small batches, place the al dente boiled tortellini into the flour bowl. Coat each piece thickly to ensure the egg mixture adheres properly.
- Dip Tortellini in Egg Mixture: Transfer floured tortellini to the egg and milk bowl. Thoroughly coat every side, leaving no visible white flour spots for optimal breading adhesion.
- Coat with Breadcrumb Mixture: Move the wet tortellini pieces to the seasoned breadcrumb bowl. Generously cover each piece with the mixture to create a crispy crust when baked.
- Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place the breaded tortellini on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them well apart to ensure they crisp thoroughly on all sides during baking.
- Bake Until Golden and Crispy: Bake the tortellini for 14 to 15 minutes or until they turn beautifully golden and crispy, checking occasionally to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer cooked tortellini to a serving tray, drizzle with melted butter, sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan, red chili flakes, and minced Italian parsley. Accompany with a bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy your delightful party snacks!
Notes
- Boil the tortellini al dente by following package instructions or subtracting one minute from the recommended time to avoid overcooking and ensure they hold their shape.
- Work in small batches when coating the tortellini to maintain an organized process and prevent the coating mixtures from becoming overcrowded or clumpy.
- Leave ample spacing on the baking sheets to allow air circulation, which helps achieve an even, crispy texture on all sides of each tortellini piece.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for enhanced flavor and better melting during baking compared to pre-grated varieties.
- The red chili flakes can be adjusted or omitted according to preferred spice levels for guests.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
