If you’re searching for the perfect comfort dinner that feels both sophisticated and a breeze to put together, Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini is here to become your new weeknight hero. This luxurious pasta brings together pillowy cheese tortellini, a dreamy cream sauce, zippy lemon, and plenty of fresh dill. In just 20 minutes, you have a dish bright enough for special guests, yet so easy you could whip up a bowl just for yourself on a random Tuesday. Every bite sings with lively flavors and mouthwatering creaminess—once you’ve tasted Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of my favorite things about Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini is how each ingredient truly shines: creamy cheese, fresh citrus pop, fragrant herbs, and a hint of garlic warmth. Gather these kitchen staples, and you’re halfway to a restaurant-level pasta that truly wows.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini (20 ounces): These tender pasta pockets hold gooey cheese that mingles perfectly with the sauce—look for fresh tortellini in the refrigerated section for best results.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Creates a silky base for the sauce and melds beautifully with garlic.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Adds a subtle aromatic bite that complements the lemon and dill.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Gives the sauce its indulgent, velvety texture.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (1/2 cup): Lends salty umami depth and helps thicken the sauce to coat the tortellini.
- Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Brings a brilliant citrus aroma without overpowering the dish—use a microplane for extra-fine zest.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Illuminates the cream sauce with tangy freshness that balances richness.
- Fresh dill, chopped (2 tablespoons): The unmistakable pop of dill makes this dish uniquely vibrant—fresh is definitely best here.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out all the flavors and enhances the cheese.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and earthiness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a little kick, these flakes offer warmth without stealing the show.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini
Step 1: Cook the Cheese Tortellini
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook your cheese tortellini according to the package directions (usually about 3–4 minutes for refrigerated varieties). The tortellini should be tender and floating. Drain and set them aside—don’t let them linger in the sink too long so they don’t stick together.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic in Butter
While the tortellini cooks, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, stirring constantly. This quick sizzle infuses your butter with savory garlic flavor and sets the base for the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Keep an eye on it—gentle bubbles are key! Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and stir until melted and completely smooth. The sauce will look glossy and lush, ready to coat your pasta.
Step 4: Add Lemon and Dill
With the sauce creamy and thickened, stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, black pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes. This step layers bright, herby, and tangy flavors into every spoonful. Let the sauce simmer for a minute so everything mingles beautifully.
Step 5: Toss with Tortellini and Serve
Gently add the cooked tortellini to your skillet and toss to coat every piece in the creamy, lemony sauce. Let everything cook together for 2–3 minutes, just until heated through. Serve immediately and watch as every forkful disappears with delight!
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini
Garnishes
Toppings make all the difference! A generous sprinkle of extra chopped fresh dill and a dusting of grated Parmesan immediately elevate your presentation and amp up the aroma. For a sunny twist, try a few curls of lemon zest on top to hint at the brightness within each bite.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini loves a crisp companion, like a simple arugula salad with a lemony vinaigrette or roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil. Crusty garlic bread is practically a must for mopping up any extra sauce. For a heartier table, add a platter of grilled chicken or shrimp—the flavors are so harmonious!
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve the tortellini in beautiful shallow bowls, with extra dill scattered over each serving. If you’re making this as a main for a crowd, consider arranging it family-style in a large pasta dish, nestled among roasted spring vegetables. As an appetizer, you can even skewer individual tortellini and offer them with small ramekins of the sauce as a unique party bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini, cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep fresh for up to three days. The sauce may thicken, but the flavor actually deepens and melds as it awaits your next meal.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini in a pinch. Place cooled tortellini and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to one month. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge. Note: The cream may separate slightly when frozen, but a gentle reheat will usually bring things back together.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream, warming over low heat and stirring gently until hot and creamy again. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may cause the sauce to separate. If the sauce is too thick, a drizzle of lemon juice and an extra pinch of dill will brighten it right up.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! You can swap refrigerated for frozen tortellini without any trouble. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the package directions and cook until the pasta is tender.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh dill?
While fresh dill truly makes the flavors pop in Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini, you can use dried dill in a pinch. Start with about 2 teaspoons dried, then add more to taste since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Look for gluten-free cheese tortellini in the specialty or health food section of your grocery store. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free, so with the right pasta swap, you can absolutely enjoy this recipe!
Is there a way to lighten up the sauce?
If you’d prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, or even try full-fat milk, though the sauce will be less rich. Add a bit of extra Parmesan to help thicken the sauce if needed.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Definitely! Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini is wonderful with the addition of cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or even flaked salmon stirred in just before serving. It brings lovely color and turns the dish into a more filling main course.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever wished for a pasta dish that feels both fancy and easy enough for a cozy night in, give Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini a try. It’s bright, creamy, and herbaceous in every bite—and most importantly, it’s the kind of meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Dive in, and see just how simple and delicious this favorite can be!
Print
Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy and zesty flavors of this delightful Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this dish combines cheese tortellini with a luscious lemon-infused cream sauce, finished with the aromatic touch of fresh dill.
Ingredients
Tortellini:
- 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Prepare the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, dill, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth.
- Combine and Serve: Add cooked tortellini to the sauce. Toss gently to coat and heat through. Serve hot, garnished with extra dill and Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For added protein, consider adding cooked shrimp or grilled chicken.
- Opt for fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried dill can be a substitute.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
