Creamy, cheesy, and sizzling hot off the griddle—this Blackstone tortellini recipe is about to be your new go-to weeknight dinner. Imagine tender, cheese-filled tortellini coated in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce, seared to perfection on a hot Blackstone griddle. It’s a flavor-packed dish that feels indulgent but is actually quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying.
Here’s a fun fact: tortellini, often called the “navel of Venus” in Italy due to its shape, has a long history rooted in romantic legends. But we’re bringing it into the modern kitchen—on a flat-top grill—for a unique twist that your taste buds will thank you for. If you’ve never cooked pasta on your Blackstone before, prepare to be amazed!
This dish is special because it takes under 30 minutes from prep to plate. It’s perfect for busy families, picky eaters, or anyone craving restaurant-style food at home—without the restaurant bill. It’s just as popular as our Blackstone chicken alfredo (which readers LOVE), but with a delightful cheesy tortellini twist.
Ready to bring the sizzle to your backyard dinner routine? Let’s dive in and fire up that griddle!
Table of Contents
What is Blackstone Tortellini?
What’s in a name? Well, in the case of Blackstone tortellini, it’s exactly what it sounds like—mouthwatering, cheesy pasta tossed and toasted on a Blackstone griddle. It might sound fancy, but it’s actually pure comfort food, turned up to 11.
Why cook tortellini on a griddle, you ask? Because everything’s better with a little char! The seared edges and creamy sauce give this dish a bold, irresistible flavor. Plus, let’s be real: who doesn’t love the sound of sizzling pasta?
As they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish proves it. So go ahead—grab that spatula and give this tortellini a try. It’s time to turn your Blackstone into the ultimate pasta station!
Why You’ll Love This Blackstone Tortellini Recipe
1. It’s the Ultimate Creamy, Cheesy Dream
The tortellini cooks up with a golden edge while soaking up all that creamy, garlic-butter goodness. Add in parmesan, mozzarella, and Italian herbs, and you’ve got a savory, melty masterpiece that hits all the right notes.
2. Budget-Friendly & Better Than Takeout
Skip the overpriced pasta nights and make this at home for a fraction of the cost. Frozen or fresh tortellini works great, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. It’s a great way to feed the whole family without breaking the bank.
3. Toppings That Steal the Show
Think crispy bacon bits, sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or a dash of red pepper flakes. Customize it to your taste and switch it up every time! It’s like our viral Blackstone chicken stir fry, but creamier and even more crave-worthy.
Want to become the dinner hero tonight? Grab that griddle and get cooking!
How to Make Blackstone Tortellini
Quick Overview
This dish is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor. You’ll cook cheese-stuffed tortellini right on the Blackstone in a buttery garlic sauce, then finish it with heavy cream and cheese. Prep and cook time combined is under 30 minutes—ideal for weeknights or quick weekend meals.
Key Ingredients for Blackstone Tortellini Recipe
To bring this creamy and flavorful tortellini dish to life on your Blackstone griddle, you’ll need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:
- 1 (20 oz) package of cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen, pre-cooked) These little pasta pockets are the star of the show—cheesy, tender, and perfect for searing on the griddle.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Helps prevent sticking and gives the tortellini a crisp, golden finish.
- 3 tablespoons butter Adds richness and helps build the creamy garlic base of the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced A must-have for bold flavor—fresh garlic gives this dish its signature savory aroma.
- 1 cup heavy cream Forms the luscious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nutty, salty bite that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese For extra creaminess and that irresistible cheese pull.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A blend of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary that enhances the dish’s classic Italian profile.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Season as you go—taste and adjust!
Optional Toppings:
- Take your tortellini to the next level with these flavorful, customizable toppings. Whether you’re going for something smoky, spicy, or fresh, these extras add texture, color, and big taste.
- Crispy Bacon Bits Adds a savory crunch and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Fresh Chopped Parsley or Basil A sprinkle of green brings a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes Intensely flavorful and slightly tangy—these brighten the dish and add a Mediterranean twist.
- Sautéed Spinach or Kale A healthy, earthy touch that blends beautifully with the creamy base.
- Red Pepper Flakes Just a pinch can wake up the whole dish with a gentle kick of heat.
- Grated Pecorino Romano For an extra salty, sharp cheese layer that complements the mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Toasted Pine Nuts or Walnuts Adds a little crunch and nuttiness for a gourmet finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to cook up something creamy, cheesy, and downright irresistible? Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Blackstone tortellini—even if you’re a griddle beginner!
Step 1: Prep the Tortellini
If using fresh tortellini, you can skip to Step 2.
If using frozen tortellini, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
✅ Tip: Don’t overcook! The tortellini will cook more on the griddle, so slightly firm is best.
Step 2: Preheat the Blackstone Griddle
Turn your Blackstone griddle to medium heat and allow it to preheat fully—this helps prevent sticking and ensures an even sear.
Drizzle olive oil over the hot surface and spread evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Butter
Add butter and minced garlic directly onto the hot oiled griddle. Stir continuously for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, but don’t let it brown.
🍽️ This step creates a flavorful base for the sauce and preps the griddle for the tortellini.
Step 4: Sear the Tortellini
Spread the cooked tortellini onto the griddle in a single layer. Let them cook for about 2–3 minutes, flipping occasionally to develop a golden, lightly crispy edge.
Step 5: Pour in the Cream and Season
Slowly pour heavy cream over the tortellini. Add in:
- Grated Parmesan
- Shredded mozzarella
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Use your spatula to stir gently, coating the tortellini evenly and melting the cheeses into a rich sauce.
Step 6: Simmer and Thicken
Let everything simmer on the griddle for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will begin to thicken and cling to the pasta.
🔄 If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 7: Add Optional Toppings & Serve
Once the sauce is velvety and the tortellini is perfectly coated, remove from heat. Add your favorite toppings like crispy bacon, parsley, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Plate it up hot and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
What to Serve Blackstone Tortellini With
While this Blackstone tortellini recipe is rich and satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right sides or drinks can take your meal to the next level. Whether you’re hosting guests or cooking a cozy weeknight dinner, here are some delicious ideas to round out the plate:
🥖 Garlic Bread or Breadsticks
You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread to mop up all that creamy sauce. Try homemade breadsticks with Italian herbs for an extra savory touch.
🥗 Crisp Side Salad
A light salad helps balance the richness of the tortellini. Go with:
- Classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and shaved Parmesan
- Mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and balsamic vinaigrette
- Arugula salad with lemon and shaved Pecorino for a peppery bite
🍗 Grilled Protein
Add some extra substance to the meal with a protein:
- Grilled chicken breast with Italian seasoning
- Garlic butter shrimp—quick and elegant!
- Blackened salmon for a bold, smoky twist
🍷 Wine or Drinks
Pair your creamy tortellini with:
- Chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- Sparkling water with lemon for a non-alcoholic option
- Italian soda or light rosé if you’re feeling festive
🍋 Roasted or Grilled Vegetables
Keep things light and seasonal with:
Sautéed mushrooms with garlic and herbs
Roasted zucchini and bell peppers
Grilled asparagus or green beans
Top Tips for Perfecting Blackstone Tortellini
Use Fresh Tortellini When Possible
Frozen works in a pinch, but fresh tortellini gives you better texture and faster cook time.
Don’t Skip the Sear
Letting the tortellini brown slightly on the Blackstone adds flavor and a satisfying bite.
Keep the Sauce Creamy
If the sauce thickens too much, just add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Try Fun Toppings
Crispy pancetta, fresh basil, or red chili flakes add fun layers of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Blackstone Tortellini
Cooking on a griddle is fun and fast—but it’s easy to make a few slip-ups if you’re not careful. Here are the top mistakes to watch out for when making this delicious Blackstone tortellini recipe (and how to avoid them!):
🔥 1. Using Raw Tortellini on the Griddle
Mistake: Tossing uncooked tortellini directly onto the griddle.
Fix: Always cook the tortellini first according to the package directions (especially if frozen). The Blackstone is for finishing and flavor—not boiling!
Mistake: Overheating the griddle and scorching the butter.
Fix: Keep the heat at medium and add butter after the oil and garlic are in. Stir constantly when sautéing to prevent burning.
🧂 3. Underseasoning the Dish
Mistake: Relying only on cheese for flavor.
Fix: Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning while cooking. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust as needed.
🧊 4. Letting the Sauce Thicken Too Much
Mistake: Letting the sauce reduce too long, resulting in dry or sticky pasta.
Fix: Keep an eye on it! Stir frequently and add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if needed to maintain that creamy consistency.
🍝 5. Overcrowding the Griddle
Mistake: Adding too much tortellini at once, which causes steaming instead of searing.
Fix: Spread the tortellini in a single layer and cook in batches if needed for even browning and crisp edges.
🧊 6. Skipping the Resting Time Before Storing
Mistake: Tossing hot pasta into a container, leading to soggy leftovers.
Fix: Let it cool slightly before refrigerating. This preserves the texture and prevents excess moisture buildup.
Storing and Reheating Tips
🧊 Storing and Reheating Tips
Made a big batch or have some leftovers? Great news—this Blackstone tortellini stores and reheats like a dream! Here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful for tomorrow (or next week).
🧁 How to Store Leftovers
- Cool it down first: Let the tortellini come to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation.
- Use airtight containers: Store in a sealed container to lock in moisture and prevent the sauce from drying out.
- Refrigerate promptly: Place in the fridge within 1 hour of cooking.
- Shelf life: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
💡 Label your container with the date to keep track of freshness!
🔥 How to Reheat
➤ Microwave Method (Quick & Easy):
- Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.
- Cover loosely with a lid or paper towel.
- Heat on medium power for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
➤ Stovetop Method (Best Texture):
- Add the tortellini to a skillet or saucepan.
- Stir in a small amount of milk or water.
- Reheat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
✅ Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating or curdling.
❄️ Can You Freeze Blackstone Tortellini?
Yes, but with a note of caution:
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
The pasta freezes well, but the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
For best results, freeze the tortellini without the sauce, then make a fresh sauce when reheating.
Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.
Health Benefits of Blackstone Tortellini
| Nutritional Element | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Cheese (Parmesan, Mozzarella) | High in calcium, supports bone health |
| Garlic | Boosts immune system, adds natural flavor |
| Olive Oil | Heart-healthy fats, anti-inflammatory |
| Tortellini (with Egg) | Good source of protein and energy |
| Spinach (optional add-in) | High in iron and vitamins, great for digestion |
While this isn’t exactly a “diet” dish, it’s wholesome, hearty, and can be tweaked for healthier versions with low-fat cream and whole wheat tortellini.
Conclusion
The Blackstone tortellini recipe isn’t just another pasta dish—it’s a full-on flavor explosion right from your griddle. It’s fast, flexible, and family-friendly. Whether you’re new to cooking on a Blackstone or you’ve been flipping burgers on it for years, this recipe will surprise and delight your dinner crowd.
Make it tonight, and don’t be surprised if it becomes part of your weekly rotation. And while you’re here, why not check out our Blackstone Philly cheesesteak sliders or griddle fajitas for more sizzling inspiration?
Got questions or your own twist on this recipe? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear how yours turned out!
Blackstone Tortellini Recipe
Equipment
- Blackstone griddle (or any flat top grill)
- Large pot (for boiling tortellini)
- Slotted spoon or colander
- Griddle spatula or tongs
- Mixing bowl (optional for prepping add-ins)
Ingredients
- 1 package 20 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional Add-ins:
- Cooked chicken or sausage
- Baby spinach
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Mushrooms
- Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
- Extra Parmesan
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat the Griddle:
- Turn your Blackstone to medium heat. Drizzle with olive oil and butter to coat the surface evenly.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the griddle. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Sear Tortellini:
- Place the cooked tortellini on the griddle. Let them sear for 5–7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Make the Sauce:
- Pour heavy cream directly onto the tortellini. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta.
- Season and Serve:
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix in any add-ins like spinach or grilled chicken. Garnish and serve hot.
