Air Fryer Tortellini (Printable)
Golden, parmesan-crusted tortellini with Italian herbs, air-fried to crispy perfection and served with warm marinara.
# What You'll Need:
→ Main Components
01 - 10 oz refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
02 - 2 large eggs
03 - 1/4 cup milk
→ Breading
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tsp Italian seasoning
07 - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
08 - 1/4 tsp salt
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
→ For Serving
10 - 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
11 - Fresh basil leaves (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes to ensure proper crisping.
02 - If using frozen tortellini, cook according to package directions until just tender. Drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
03 - In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
04 - In a separate shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
05 - Dip each tortellini into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then press into the breadcrumb mixture. Coat thoroughly, pressing gently to ensure the breading adheres properly.
06 - Place coated tortellini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which prevents proper crisping.
07 - Lightly spray the tortellini with olive oil spray to promote even browning and crispy texture.
08 - Air fry for 7 to 9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking time. Cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
09 - Transfer crispy tortellini to a serving platter. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
# Cooking Tips:
01 -
- The air fryer creates that perfect crunch without the mess of deep frying oil everywhere
- These come together faster than delivery arrives and taste infinitely better
02 -
- Pat the cooked tortellini completely dry before breading or the coating will slide right off
- Do not skip shaking the basket halfway through or some pieces will burn while others stay soggy
03 -
- Work quickly once you start dipping because wet breading gets messy and clumpy
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breading for a spicy version adults will love