If you love Southern comfort food and Italian pasta, this recipe brings the best of both worlds together. Caramelized Tennessee Onion Tortellini blends the sweet richness of slow-cooked Tennessee onions with tender cheese-filled tortellini, creating a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.
Caramelized onions add natural sweetness and depth, while the pasta makes it filling and satisfying. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet at the same time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- âś… Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
- âś… Creamy, cheesy, and full of comfort
- âś… Easy to make in under 40 minutes
- âś… Works for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to make Caramelized Tennessee Onion Tortellini:
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 3 large Tennessee onions (or any sweet onions, thinly sliced)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- ½ tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Caramelize the Onions
- In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook slowly for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
2. Cook the Tortellini
- Meanwhile, boil tortellini in salted water according to package directions.
- Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
- Add heavy cream to the onions and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and thyme, cooking until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine & Serve
- Toss cooked tortellini into the onion cream sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- 🍷 Pair with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
- 🥖 Serve with garlic bread or crusty baguette for a complete meal
- 🥗 Add a fresh green salad to balance the richness
- 🌿 Top with crispy bacon bits for extra flavor
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the onion sauce.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or Gruyère for a creamier finish.
- Vegetarian Twist: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture.
- Protein Boost: Stir in grilled chicken or Italian sausage.
