How many times have you gone to Costco and ended up with more food than you can handle? We’ve all been there, and it’s frustrating to see your hard-earned money go straight into the trash. But fear not! If you have some Costco tortellini sitting in your freezer, we’ve got you covered with these easy and delicious recipes that will turn that frozen pasta into a delightful meal. So, let’s dig into the world of Costco tortellini and discover some fantastic ways to enjoy this versatile ingredient.
Is Costco Tortellini Worth It?
Absolutely! Costco tortellini has a mild flavor that can be prepared in various ways. In just a few minutes, you can have a delicious dinner on the table that everyone will love. Similar to their famous rotisserie chickens and frozen vegetables, Costco tortellini is a real crowd-pleaser that won’t disappoint. Trust us, you won’t regret this purchase!
Costco Tortellini vs. Costco Tortelloni
Before getting started, it’s essential to know the difference between tortellini and tortelloni when browsing the Costco aisles. The cheese-filled pasta you find in the refrigerator section is tortelloni, while the frozen version is tortellini. While both are made from flour and eggs, they differ in shape and filling. Tortelloni is typically filled with cheese and herbs, while tortellini usually contains a meat filling. Confusingly, Costco’s Servioli Tortellini is actually cheese-filled. So, don’t stress too much about which one to choose; they taste pretty similar and can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
Cooking Time for Costco Tortellini
To cook your Costco tortellini to perfection, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Tortellini typically cooks in just 3-5 minutes, while tortelloni requires around 2 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can quickly turn mushy. A little bit of al dente is perfectly fine and will help the pasta hold its shape and texture.
How Much Does Costco Tortellini Cost?
The Servioli Tortellini at Costco is priced at $9.99 for a 5lb bag, which provides approximately 18 servings. On the other hand, Costco Tortelloni costs $10.69 for a 3lb bag, giving you around seven servings. So, whichever option you choose, you’ll be getting a great deal for a satisfying meal.
Cooking Costco Tortellini from Frozen: Yes, You Can!
Don’t worry if you forget to thaw your tortellini before cooking it. Costco tortellini is sold frozen and should be stored that way. You can cook it from frozen without defrosting. Just keep in mind that you may need to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time to ensure it’s fully done. To be certain, check that the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit for perfectly cooked tortellini.
Nutrition Facts: Costco Tortellini and Tortelloni
10 Mouthwatering Recipes Using Costco Tortellini
Now that we have all the basics covered, it’s time to explore some fantastic recipes using Costco tortellini. Get ready to expand your culinary horizons and make the most out of this delightful pasta. Let’s dive in!
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Pesto: If you have an abundance of basil or simply love the herb, it’s time to make some pesto. This sauce is the perfect complement to tortellini and can be prepared in just a few minutes. Check out Simply Recipes for an easy-to-follow pesto recipe that you can customize to your liking.
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Salad: Tortellini doesn’t always have to take center stage; it can also shine as part of a larger dish. Try making a Tuscan Tortellini Salad that incorporates sundried tomatoes, spinach, and, of course, pasta. This recipe, a Chalkboard Favorite, is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
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Baked Tortellini: Craving a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Give Dinner at the Zoo’s Baked Tortellini a try. Substitute tortellini for the regular pasta, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready to be devoured. You can even experiment with different sauces or meat options to customize it to your taste.
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Chicken Alfredo: If you or a loved one are cheese enthusiasts, take cheesiness to the next level with chicken alfredo tortellini. This rich and indulgent dish can be balanced out with the addition of broccoli. Simply substitute tortellini for the pasta in your favorite chicken alfredo recipe and enjoy!
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Meat Sauce: Want to add some extra oomph to your tortellini? A meat sauce is the way to go. While some recipes require hours of simmering, Tastes Better From Scratch has a fantastic 30-minute recipe that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings to your liking.
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Primavera: Add a healthy twist to your tortellini by incorporating roasted vegetables. Make sure to chop them slightly smaller than the pasta to ensure even cooking. The combination of vibrant veggies and savory tortellini will create a perfectly balanced dish.
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With Peas and Ham: Need a hassle-free meal? Just add some chopped ham and frozen peas to your cooked tortellini. If you don’t have leftover ham, steaks or cold cuts will do the trick. Simply heat the peas and ham in a skillet, then combine them with the tortellini for a comforting and satisfying meal.
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Tomato Soup: Take your tomato soup to the next level by adding tortellini instead of croutons. Natasha’s Kitchen has a simple and delicious recipe that mainly uses pantry ingredients. The tortellini adds a cheesy twist to the soup, eliminating the need for excessive parmesan. Feel free to adjust the cheese to your liking as you savor each spoonful.
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Skewers: Tortellini isn’t just for main dishes; it also makes a fantastic appetizer. Thread it onto skewers along with tomatoes, mozzarella, spinach, salami, or anything else you fancy. To elevate the flavor, try serving the skewers with a side of pesto, balsamic vinegar, or a simple olive oil dip.
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Chimichurri: This South American sauce, bursting with herbs, pairs incredibly well with tortellini. Prepare it ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together. Don’t worry; it only takes a few minutes to prepare with the help of a food processor. The vibrant chimichurri will add a tangy and herbal touch to your tortellini.
What’s Your Favorite Way to Enjoy Costco Tortellini?
Have you tried Costco tortellini before? How do you like to prepare it? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Share your favorite recipes and tips with us!
And don’t forget, if you’re in the mood for more Costco-inspired recipes, check out our 11 delicious meatball recipes that will make your taste buds dance.
Happy cooking, and enjoy your next trip to Costco!
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