Name: Tortellini Party Snacks Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 20-ounce package refrigerated three-cheese tortellini, boiled al dente; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 5 large eggs; 5 tablespoons milk; 2 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes; Sea salt, a sprinkling; Freshly ground black pepper, a few twists; Drizzling of melted butter; Grated Parmesan cheese; Sprinkling of red chili flakes; Minced Italian parsley; 1 regular-sized jar (about 23.5 ounces) classic marinara sauce

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Introduction

These Tortellini Party Snacks are a crispy, cheesy delight perfect for any gathering. Breaded and baked to golden perfection, they make a fun appetizer that pairs beautifully with classic marinara sauce. Easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests!

A large round white plate is filled with many small, golden-brown, crispy cauliflower bites coated with green herbs and sprinkled with white cheese. In the middle of the plate, there is a smaller white bowl holding thick, red marinara sauce topped with a bright green parsley leaf. Next to the plate, there is a bunch of fresh green parsley and a white striped cloth on a white marbled surface. A silver container filled with wooden toothpicks stands in the background, completing a cozy snack presentation. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 20-ounce refrigerated package three-cheese tortellini, boiled al dente
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: drizzling of melted butter, grated Parmesan, sprinkling of chili flakes, minced Italian parsley
Dipping sauce: one regular-sized jar of classic marinara sauce (about 23.5 ounces)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Prepare three shallow bowls along with a whisk and a spoon.
Step 2: Place the flour in the first bowl.
Step 3: In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Step 4: In the third bowl, combine the Panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, chili pepper flakes, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Step 5: Working in small batches, toss the boiled tortellini in the flour, coating each piece thoroughly. Then transfer them to the egg and milk mixture, ensuring all sides are evenly coated with no visible flour spots. Finally, coat each piece generously in the bread crumb mixture and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets with space between each piece for crisping.
Step 6: Bake the breaded tortellini for 14 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy on all sides.
Step 7: Transfer the crispy tortellini to a serving tray. Drizzle melted butter over the top and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese, chili flakes, and minced Italian parsley. Serve alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, allow the breaded tortellini to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before baking to help the coating adhere better.
Try using spicy or garlic-flavored marinara sauce for a twist on the classic dipping choice.
To make these snacks vegetarian-friendly, verify that your tortellini and Parmesan are suitable or substitute with vegan alternatives.

Storage

Store any leftover tortellini snacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated 350-degree oven for about 8 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A large round white bowl filled with many small, golden-brown, crispy cauliflower bites topped with green herbs and sprinkled with white cheese. In the center of the bowl is a smaller round bowl of thick red marinara sauce, garnished with a sprig of fresh green parsley. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface with a blue and white striped cloth nearby. In the background, there is fresh green parsley and a metal cup holding wooden sticks. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Yes, frozen tortellini can be used. Just be sure to cook and drain them well before starting the breading process to avoid excess moisture.

Can I fry the tortellini instead of baking?

Frying is an option and will give an even crispier texture, but baking offers a healthier, less messy alternative. If frying, cook in hot oil until golden and drain on paper towels before serving.