Crispy Air Fryer Tortellini (Printable version)
Golden tortellini bites with Italian seasoning, ready in 20 minutes.
# What you need:
→ Main Components
01 - 10 oz refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
02 - 2 large eggs, beaten
03 - 1/4 cup whole milk
→ Breading Mixture
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tsp Italian seasoning blend
07 - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
08 - 1/4 tsp kosher salt
09 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ For Serving
10 - 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
11 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish
12 - Olive oil cooking spray
# How To:
01 - Set air fryer to 375°F and preheat for 3 minutes to ensure optimal crisping conditions.
02 - Cook frozen tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and pat completely dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
03 - Whisk together eggs and milk in a shallow bowl until fully combined and smooth.
04 - Combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a separate shallow bowl. Mix until evenly distributed.
05 - Working in batches, dip each tortellini into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off. Press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring complete coverage on all sides.
06 - Place coated tortellini in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces for proper air circulation. Cook in multiple batches if needed.
07 - Lightly mist the tortellini with olive oil cooking spray to promote even browning and crispiness.
08 - Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, shaking the basket vigorously halfway through cooking time. Continue until golden brown and crispy throughout.
09 - Transfer crispy tortellini to a serving platter. Serve hot alongside warm marinara sauce for dipping, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- They come together faster than delivery arrives and taste infinitely better
- The crispy exterior gives way to that wonderfully soft cheese center everyone craves
02 -
- Crowding the basket leads to soggy spots, so work in batches if necessary
- The olive oil spray step is not optional if you want that restaurant-quality golden crunch
03 -
- Patting the cooked tortellini completely dry before breading prevents coating from sliding off
- Let the coated tortellini sit for 5 minutes before air frying to help the breading set