Tortellini party snacks served on a platter with dipping sauces.

Ready for a crunchy, cheesy snack that your guests will love?

introduction

Tortellini Party Snacks are small, crispy bites made from three-cheese tortellini. They are easy to make and work well for parties or quick snacks. If you want more fun party ideas to pair with these bites, check this anti-Valentine’s Day party ideas page for simple extras.

why make this recipe

Fast to prepare.
Uses store-bought tortellini to save time.
Crunchy outside, soft inside — people like that contrast.
Good for feeding a crowd.

how to make Tortellini Party Snacks

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Boil the tortellini until al dente. Drain and let cool a bit so you can handle them.
Set up three shallow bowls: Bowl #1 with flour. Bowl #2 with beaten eggs and milk. Bowl #3 with panko, grated Parmesan, oregano, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix bowl #3 well.
Work in small batches. Coat each tortellini in flour first, then dip into the egg mixture. Make sure no white flour spots remain.
Press each wet tortellini into the panko mix so it is well coated on all sides. Place on the baking sheet with space between pieces.
Bake for 14–15 minutes, until the snacks are golden and crispy.
Arrange on a tray. Drizzle melted butter and sprinkle extra Parmesan, chili flakes, and minced parsley. Serve with a bowl of marinara for dipping.

Ingredients :

1 20-ounce refrigerated package three-cheese tortellini, boiled al dente.
1 + 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
5 large eggs
5 tablespoons milk
2 + 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs
1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes
A sprinkling of sea salt
A few twists of freshly-ground black pepper
Garnishes: drizzling of melted butter, grated Parmesan, sprinkling of chili flakes, minced Italian parsley
Dipping sauce: one regular-sized jar of classic marinara sauce (I used a 23.5-ounce jar)

how to serve Tortellini Party Snacks

Place the snacks on a party tray with a bowl of warm marinara sauce. Drizzle melted butter over the top and add extra Parmesan and parsley. Serve hot so they stay crispy.

how to store Tortellini Party Snacks

Cool fully before storing.
Put in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To re-crisp, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes, or use an air fryer for a few minutes.

tips to make Tortellini Party Snacks

Work in small batches so pieces do not stick.
Make sure each tortellini has no visible flour before coating with panko.
Press the panko gently so it sticks well.
Leave space between pieces on the baking sheet for even browning.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor.

variation (if any)

Fry instead of bake for an extra-crispy shell.
Use seasoned panko or add garlic powder to the breading.
Swap marinara for pesto or a spicy mayo dip.
Use spinach or mushroom tortellini for different flavors.
For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and panko.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Yes. Thaw and boil until al dente, then follow the same steps.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can bread them and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Bake just before serving for best crisp.

Q: How do I keep them crispy after baking?
A: Serve right away. If you must hold them, keep them in a single layer on a warm baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F / 95°C) for a short time.

Q: Are these safe for kids?
A: Yes. Omit the red pepper flakes if you want a milder flavor for children.

Q: Can I freeze baked tortellini snacks?
A: You can freeze them in a single layer, then reheat in the oven to restore crispness.