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Creamy Cheese Tortellini with Asparagus

Tortellini are often served in broth, but a quick sauce and some tender asparagus make them more substantial.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    20 min

  • Yield

    Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

4

cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

2

garlic cloves, smashed

3

large thyme sprigs

2

(2- by 1-inch) strips lemon zest

1

(16-to 20-ounces) package refrigerated, frozen, or dried cheese tortellini

2

teaspoons cornstarch

2

/3 cup heavy cream

1

bunch asparagus (3/4 pound), trimmed and thinly sliced diagonally

1

/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

Need to make a substitution?

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Boil broth with garlic, thyme, zest, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a large heavy skillet until reduced to about 1 cup, about 6 minutes. Discard thyme sprigs and zest.

    Step 2

    Meanwhile, cook tortellini in a pasta pot of boiling salted water (1 1/2 tablespoons salt for 4 quarts water) according to package directions. Drain.

    Step 3

    Stir cornstarch into cream, then whisk into broth. Bring to a simmer, whisking, then continue to simmer 1 minute. Add asparagus and simmer until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Stir in cheese and tortellini and cook, gently stirring, until heated through.