Crispy Air Fryer Tortellini Recipe

If you’re searching for your new favorite snack, appetizer, or game-night treat, this Crispy Air Fryer Tortellini delivers pure, golden-brown joy in every bite. Imagine cheesy tortellini coated in a savory Parmesan blend, then air-fried to irresistible, crunchy perfection—honestly, it’s addictive simplicity at its best!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is a masterclass in simplicity! Each ingredient has a job—from making the tortellini golden and crispy to packing every bite with bold, cheesy, garlicky flavor. Let’s take a look at what you need for Crispy Air Fryer Tortellini and why each piece matters.

• 9 ounces refrigerated tortellini (cheese or prosciutto): The star of the show—go for high-quality, fresh tortellini for the best flavor and texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the seasonings coat the tortellini and ensures they crisp beautifully in the air fryer.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses every bite with warm, savory depth—don’t skip it!
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings dried herbs that make the tortellini super aromatic and truly Italian-inspired.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Elevates all the other flavors and gives every bite the right level of savory goodness.
• 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan: Adds extra crunch, nuttiness, and a gorgeous, golden crust.
• Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and guarantees that irresistible crispy finish.

Variations

One of the best parts about Crispy Air Fryer Tortellini? You can easily make them your own! Get creative and swap flavors, cater to dietary needs, or transform them for any occasion with just a few tweaks.

• Stuffed Tortellini Party: Try other filled tortellini—spinach, mushroom, or truffle varieties are all delicious and add a new layer of flavor.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free tortellini for a crunchy, allergen-friendly treat everyone can enjoy.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix for a bold, zesty version.
• Cheese Explosion: Swap out some Parmesan for Romano or Asiago, or sprinkle extra cheese just before serving for melty, loaded bites.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Tortellini

Step 1: Soften the Tortellini

Place the refrigerated tortellini in a large bowl and pour over enough boiling water to cover them completely. Let them soak for about 3 minutes—just enough to soften without making them mushy. This little bath helps the coatings cling and keeps the centers tender after crisping.

Step 2: Season and Coat

Drain the tortellini well, then return them to the bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle over the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and generous heaps of grated Parmesan. Use a spatula (or clean hands!) to gently toss, ensuring every tortellini pillow is coated in savory, cheesy deliciousness.

Step 3: Prep the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for a few minutes to guarantee even crisping from the get-go. While it heats, give the basket a quick spritz with cooking spray—this way, your cheesy tortellini won’t stick and will turn gloriously golden.

Step 4: Air Fry in Batches

Spread the coated tortellini in a single, non-overlapping layer in your air fryer basket (depending on the size, you’ll probably need to do two or more batches). Cook for 8–10 minutes, giving the basket a gentle shake or using tongs to flip them halfway for even crunch. Watch for that tantalizing golden-brown crust—it happens fast!

Step 5: Keep Warm (If Needed)

If you’re making big batches, transfer each finished round of Crispy Air Fryer Tortellini onto a tray in a 200°F oven to stay warm. This way, every bite that hits the table will be piping hot and shatteringly crisp.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Arrange the tortellini on a platter while they’re still warm. Serve with your favorite marinara sauce or a creamy dip for dunking, and watch as everyone immediately grabs for “just one more.”

How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Tortellini

Garnishes

A pretty sprinkle of chopped fresh basil, parsley, or even extra Parmesan not only brightens the plate but also adds a pop of color and more flavor. Try dusting with a little lemon zest for a zippy, fresh kick—it’s the chef’s secret move!

Side Dishes

These crunchy bites are practically begging for a dip—classic marinara or a creamy ranch are always loved. Pair next to an Italian chopped salad, a simple veggie tray, or even a warm bowl of soup for a cozy, delicious meal built around your Crispy Air Fryer Tortellini.

Creative Ways to Present

Thread tortellini onto skewers for an adorable party “kebab,” stack them in a tall bowl with toothpicks for easy snacking, or lay them out on a charcuterie board surrounded by colorful fresh veggies, dips, and olives. They disappear fast, so show them off before they’re gone!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crispy Air Fryer Tortellini (if you have any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing so they don’t steam and lose that beloved crunch.

Freezing

Want to prep ahead? Let the cooked tortellini cool, then freeze in a single layer on a tray before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They keep their texture for about a month and can be reheated straight from frozen for a fast, crowd-pleasing snack.

Reheating

For the crispiest result, pop leftovers back into the air fryer at 350°F for about 2–4 minutes, or until heated through and re-crisped. The oven works too, but the microwave will soften them—delicious, but you won’t get that signature crunch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to wow your friends, win over picky eaters, or simply treat yourself to something wonderfully crunchy and cheesy, Crispy Air Fryer Tortellini is calling your name. Give this recipe a try and prepare for it to disappear fast—don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request in your kitchen!

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