Description
Crispy Baked Tortellini Bites are a delightful snack or appetizer featuring Italian-seasoned tortellini coated in a flavorful parmesan breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden, crunchy perfection. Served with marinara dipping sauce and garnished with fresh basil, these bites combine classic Italian flavors with a satisfying crunch, perfect for parties or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Tortellini and Coating
- 1 (20 ounce) package refrigerated tortellini (about 5 cups total)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs (not panko)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (not shredded)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Cooking spray (olive oil recommended)
Dipping Sauce and Garnishes
- ½ cup marinara sauce, for dipping
- Chopped fresh basil, for garnishing
- Extra grated parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Surface: Set your oven to 425°F. Place a wire rack on top of a rimmed baking sheet and spray it thoroughly with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote even crisping while baking.
- Make the Egg Wash: In a shallow dish, whisk together 2 large eggs and 2 tablespoons of water until fully combined. This egg wash helps the bread crumbs stick to the tortellini.
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture: In another shallow dish, mix 1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs, ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Whisk well to evenly distribute flavors.
- Coat the Tortellini: Place a single layer of tortellini in the egg wash dish. One piece at a time, turn each tortellini to coat thoroughly and let excess drip off. Transfer immediately to the breadcrumb mixture and press gently so both sides stick well.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the coated tortellini in a single layer on the prepared wire rack over the baking sheet. Spray the tops with olive oil cooking spray to ensure a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake to Crispness: Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the tortellini are golden brown and crispy on top. Watch closely near the end to avoid burning and achieve perfect crunch.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately with ½ cup marinara sauce for dipping. Optionally sprinkle extra grated parmesan and chopped fresh basil over the bites for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- Use grated parmesan cheese instead of shredded to ensure better adhesion to the tortellini.
- Avoid panko breadcrumbs as their large size and lightness make them less effective for coating.
- Spraying the wire rack with olive oil prevents sticking and helps achieve crispiness on all sides.
- The wire rack elevates the tortellini allowing heat to circulate freely for even baking and crunch.
- Serve the bites immediately after baking to enjoy the crispiest texture.
Keywords: baked tortellini bites, crispy tortellini appetizer, Italian appetizer, parmesan breadcrumb tortellini, easy party snacks