Homemade Beet Tortellini Recipe

Homemade Beet Tortellini is a stunning and delicious pasta dish featuring a vibrant beet-infused dough stuffed with a creamy ricotta and Parmesan filling. Tossed in melted butter and fresh herbs, this elegant dish is perfect for a gourmet homemade meal that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Stunning – The deep pink beet pasta dough makes a striking presentation.
• Delicate & Creamy Filling – Ricotta and Parmesan create a rich, velvety center.
• Homemade & Fresh – Made entirely from scratch for an authentic Italian experience.
• Perfect for Special Occasions – Great for date nights, holidays, or dinner parties.
• Vegetarian-Friendly – A satisfying and meatless pasta dish full of flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Beet Pasta Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large roasted beet (pureed)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For Serving:

• 3 tbsp butter (melted)
• Fresh herbs (thyme or basil)
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Make the Pasta Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Create a well in the center and add beet puree, eggs, and olive oil.
3. Gradually mix the ingredients until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

1. In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Shape the Tortellini:

1. Roll out the rested dough into a thin sheet.
2. Cut out 2-inch circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
3. Place ½ teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle.
4. Fold into a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal.
5. Wrap the folded pasta around your finger and pinch the ends together to form tortellini.

Cook the Tortellini:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
2. Add the tortellini and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
3. Drain gently and set aside.

Serve & Enjoy:

1. Toss the cooked tortellini with melted butter and fresh herbs.
2. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Brown Butter Sauce: Replace melted butter with browned butter for a nutty depth of flavor.
• Goat Cheese Filling: Swap ricotta for goat cheese for a tangier taste.
• Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture.
• Garlic Butter Sauce: Sauté minced garlic in butter before tossing with tortellini.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based ricotta and a flax egg substitute.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store uncooked tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze tortellini in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Boil from frozen for an extra minute.
• Reheating: Reheat cooked tortellini by gently tossing in melted butter over low heat.

FAQs

Can I make the pasta dough ahead of time?

Yes! Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before rolling it out.

Do I need a pasta machine to roll out the dough?

No, you can roll it out by hand with a rolling pin, but a pasta machine will help achieve an even thickness.

Can I use canned beets instead of roasted beets?

Yes, but be sure to drain and puree them well to avoid excess moisture.

How do I keep my tortellini from opening while cooking?

Make sure the edges are sealed tightly before boiling. A light brush of water along the edges can help them stick better.

Can I use a different cheese in the filling?

Absolutely! Try mascarpone, feta, or a blend of ricotta and pecorino.

How do I prevent my pasta from drying out while shaping?

Keep extra dough covered with plastic wrap or a damp towel while working.

Can I serve this with a sauce other than butter?

Yes! A light lemon cream sauce or a simple garlic-infused olive oil would pair well.

What’s the best way to roast beets for this recipe?

Wrap the beet in foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes until tender. Peel and puree once cooled.

Can I make a gluten-free version?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend, but note that the dough may be more delicate.

What wine pairs well with beet tortellini?

A light, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé complements the earthy beet flavor beautifully.

Conclusion

Homemade Beet Tortellini is an elegant, flavorful dish that brings color and creativity to your dinner table. With its silky beet pasta and creamy ricotta filling, this recipe is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet homemade meal. Serve it with fresh herbs and butter, and enjoy a dish as beautiful as it is delicious!