Air Fryer Tortellini (Print Version)

Crispy coated tortellini cooked to golden perfection. Serve warm with marinara for dipping.

# What You'll Need:

→ Main Components

01 - 10 oz refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
02 - 2 large eggs
03 - 1/4 cup milk

→ Breading Mixture

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)

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes before starting the cooking process.
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 and smooth.
04 - In a separate shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute seasoning evenly.
05 - Dip each tortellini into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat all sides completely. Ensure breading adheres firmly.
06 - Place coated tortellini in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces for proper air circulation. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
07 - Lightly spray tortellini with olive oil spray. Air fry for 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking time, until exterior is golden brown and crispy.
08 - Transfer crispy tortellini to serving plates immediately. Accompany with warm marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The air fryer creates restaurant quality crunch without the mess of deep frying
  • They come together in just twenty minutes start to finish
  • Everyone fights over the last crispy piece
02 -
  • Overcrowding the basket creates steaming instead of frying so work in batches
  • Patting the tortellini completely dry before coating prevents soggy spots
  • The first batch might cook faster than later batches as the air fryer gets hotter with use
03 -
  • Let the coated tortellini sit for five minutes before air frying for the crunchiest results
  • Season each batch with a tiny pinch of flaky salt immediately after cooking

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