Air Fryer Crispy Tortellini (Printable version)
Golden, cheesy tortellini with a crispy panko-Parmesan crust, air-fried to perfection.
# What you need:
→ Main Components
01 - 10 oz refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
02 - 2 large eggs
03 - 1/4 cup milk
→ Breading Mixture
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tsp Italian seasoning
07 - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
08 - 1/4 tsp salt
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
→ For Serving
10 - 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
11 - Fresh basil leaves (optional)
# How to make it:
01 - Set air fryer to 375°F and preheat for 3 minutes until ready.
02 - If using frozen tortellini, cook according to package directions until just tender. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
03 - In a shallow bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/4 cup milk until fully combined.
04 - In a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
05 - Dip each tortellini into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Press gently into the breadcrumb mixture to coat all sides evenly. Transfer to a clean plate.
06 - Place coated tortellini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; work in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation.
07 - Lightly spray tortellini with olive oil spray. Air fry for 7–9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking time, until golden brown and crispy.
08 - Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
# Expert tips:
01 -
- The crunch rivals any restaurant fried mozzarella but happens in under 20 minutes right on your countertop
- You can prep the tortellini ahead of time and air fry them when guests arrive for fresh warm bites
02 -
- Crowding the basket creates steam instead of crunch so cook in two batches if needed
- Let them cool for just 2 minutes before serving or the cheese inside will be molten lava hot
03 -
- Freeze uncooked breaded tortellini on a baking sheet then transfer to a bag for air fryer ready snacks anytime
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix for subtle heat that builds