Description
Cheese-filled tortellini wrapped in savory prosciutto, coated with a crispy breadcrumb crust, and fried to golden perfection. This elegant appetizer offers a delightful combination of creamy cheese, salty prosciutto, and crunchy exterior, perfect for parties or a delicious starter.
Ingredients
Tortellini and Prosciutto
- 1 package cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
- 8–10 slices prosciutto, cut into strips
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Other
- Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions
- Wrap Tortellini: Take each cooked and cooled cheese tortellini and carefully wrap it with a strip of prosciutto, ensuring the tortellini is completely covered.
- Prepare Coating: In separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder for seasoning.
- Coat Tortellini: Dredge each prosciutto-wrapped tortellini first in flour, tapping off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the garlic-spiced breadcrumbs to create a crispy outer layer.
- Heat Oil: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C), ensuring there is enough oil for shallow frying or deep frying the tortellini evenly.
- Fry Tortellini: Fry the coated tortellini in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pan, for about 2–3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried tortellini using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately with marinara sauce or pesto for dipping.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, you can air fry the prosciutto-wrapped tortellini at 400°F for 8–10 minutes until crisp.
- Using pesto as a dipping sauce complements the salty prosciutto and adds fresh herbaceous flavor.
- Ensure tortellini are fully cooled before wrapping to prevent the prosciutto from tearing or sticking during coating.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.
- Monitor oil temperature to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
