Name: One Pan Cornellini: Quick & Creamy Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Fresh Corn (Substitute with frozen corn if fresh is unavailable.); 1 package Tortellini (Use store-bought for easy preparation.); 1 cup Parmesan Cheese; 1/2 cup Mascarpone Cheese; 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 2 cups Vegetable Broth (Chicken broth can be used if preferred.); 1 medium Fresh Lemon (Juiced.); 1/4 cup Fresh Chives (Chopped, or substitute with parsley.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (For browning.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of butter browning wafted through the air, instantly transforming my space into a cozy haven. There’s something magical about whipping up a dinner that combines ease and elegance, and that’s exactly what this One Pan Cornellini delivers. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a satisfying meal of creamy corn tortellini smothered in a rich sauce that’s both tangy and comforting, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. This dish not only saves time but also requires minimal cleanup—perfect for those evenings when you’re craving homemade goodness without the hassle. Are you ready to create a delightful culinary experience that will leave your family asking for seconds? Let’s dive into this simple, delicious endeavor!

Why is One Pan Cornellini a Must-Try?

Simplicity Meets Flavor: This recipe is a breeze, requiring just one pan and minimal prep time, making it perfect even for beginners.
Creamy Indulgence: The luscious combination of mascarpone and Parmesan creates a rich, velvety sauce you’ll crave.
Fresh Ingredients: With sweet corn and aromatic garlic, each bite bursts with freshness and flavor.
Quick to Prepare: Get a wholesome dinner on the table in just 20 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family meals or gatherings, this dish’s comforting vibes will leave everyone asking for your secret. Trust me; once you try this, you’ll want to pivot from takeout to homemade goodness! Pair it with a side of our delicious Pan Fried Dumplings for a complete feast!

One Pan Cornellini Ingredients

For the Pasta

Fresh Corn – Adds sweetness and a burst of flavor; substitute with frozen corn if fresh is unavailable.
Tortellini – Provides the hearty base of the dish; use store-bought for easy preparation.

For the Sauce

Parmesan Cheese – Introduces a salty, rich element to the creamy sauce.
Mascarpone Cheese – Creates a silky, smooth texture that enhances the sauce’s creaminess.
Onion – Adds aromatic depth and sweetness when sautéed.
Garlic – Boosts flavor with its robust, savory notes.

For Cooking Liquid

Vegetable Broth – Acts as the cooking liquid to hydrate and flavor the tortellini; you could use chicken broth if preferred.

For Brightness

Fresh Lemon – Adds a zesty brightness that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Fresh Chives – Offers a fragrant, herbal note as a garnish; they can also be swapped for parsley for variation.

Get ready to mix these delightful ingredients into your One Pan Cornellini, and watch your dinner transform into a quick, creamy comfort food dish that your family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pan Cornellini

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by cleaning the fresh corn—remove the husks and silk, then slice the kernels off the cob. Next, finely chop the onion and set your store-bought tortellini aside for easy access. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process, ensuring you can enjoy your One Pan Cornellini without too much fuss.

Step 2: Brown Butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to heat until it turns a golden brown, which should take about 3–4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it gives off a nutty aroma and showcases small brown bits. This step deepens the flavor of your One Pan Cornellini, making it truly special.

Step 3: Sear Vegetables
Add the chopped onion to the skillet, sautéing for about 2–3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, toss in the corn kernels and cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing them to caramelize slightly. Turn the heat to medium-high to achieve a light browning on the corn, enhancing the flavor profile of your One Pan Cornellini.

Step 4: Add Tortellini
Pour in the vegetable broth (approximately 2 cups) along with the tortellini. Stir gently to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the tortellini to cook for about 4–5 minutes. You want it to be heated through and slightly tender, creating the perfect base for your creamy sauce in the One Pan Cornellini.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheeses
Once the tortellini is cooked, reduce the heat to low, then add in ½ cup of mascarpone cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until both cheeses melt and the sauce turns creamy, which should take about 2 minutes. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to maintain the desired consistency for your One Pan Cornellini.

Step 6: Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish for added brightness. Garnish generously with additional fresh corn kernels and chopped chives. This final touch makes your One Pan Cornellini visually appealing and full of flavor, ready to dish up and enjoy!

Expert Tips for One Pan Cornellini

Cooking Time Caution: Be mindful not to overcook the tortellini; it should be al dente for the best texture in your One Pan Cornellini.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of water gradually until you reach your desired creaminess—this ensures a silky coating without clumping.
Flavor Boost: Don’t skip browning the butter! This key step enhances the depth of flavor in your dish and brings a wonderful nutty aroma to your One Pan Cornellini.
Fresh Ingredients: Always aim to use fresh corn for the best flavor, but frozen corn is a handy substitute if you’re in a pinch—just be sure to thaw it first!
Garnish for Flair: Make your One Pan Cornellini pop with a generous sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley. This adds a vibrant touch and a burst of herbaceous freshness.

How to Store and Freeze One Pan Cornellini

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth or water to reinvigorate the creamy sauce.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze One Pan Cornellini in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop, adding broth or water as needed.

Wrapping: If you anticipate leftovers, avoid overcrowding the pan during cooking to ensure proper sealing in the container for optimal freshness.

Reheating: When reheating, do so slowly over low heat while stirring frequently to ensure the sauce remains creamy and smooth—not dry or lumpy.

What to Serve with One Pan Cornellini?

Transform your One Pan Cornellini into a delightful meal experience with these perfect pairings!

Garlic Bread: A classic choice, this buttery delight adds crunch and a rich garlic flavor to complement the creaminess of the dish.
Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed with lemon vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast, brightening every bite of the creamy tortellini.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting veggies like asparagus or cherry tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the vibrant flavors of the sauce.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Indulge your comfort food cravings with a gooey grilled cheese, providing crispy texture and cheesy goodness alongside the dish.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats, filled with herbs and cheese, will bring an earthy element that pairs well with the creamy tortellini.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this crisp white wine beautifully complements the richness of the sauce, making it a lovely sipping companion.
Lemon Sorbet: Finish the meal on a refreshing note! The light, zesty sorbet acts as a palate cleanser after the indulgent dish.
Steamed Broccolini: Tender and slightly bitter, broccolini balances the richness of the One Pan Cornellini, enhancing its overall taste.
Pesto Breadsticks: These offer an herbaceous kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy elements in your pasta dish.
Homemade Apple Pie: Treat yourself to a sweet ending with warm apple pie, its cinnamon spice providing a comforting contrast to the savory meal.

One Pan Cornellini Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this recipe your own with exciting twists!

Gnocchi: Substitute tortellini with gnocchi for a pillowy texture that melts in your mouth. The comforting flavors harmonize beautifully!
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes during cooking. This simple addition transforms the dish into a zesty delight.
Cream Cheese: Swap mascarpone with cream cheese if you’re in a pinch. It provides a tangy taste that still delivers that creamy texture.
Herbed Up: Add fresh basil or parsley for herbal brightness. Not only will it elevate the flavor, but it’ll also add a lovely pop of color!
Veggie Boost: Toss in your favorite veggies like spinach or peas for a nutrition-packed twist. They’ll enhance the color and provide an extra layer of taste.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an irresistible crunch. Their nuttiness pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce!
Add Lemon Zest: For an even brighter zing, mix in some lemon zest before serving. It intensifies the dish’s freshness and leaves your taste buds dancing.
Substitute Broth: If you want a deeper flavor, try using homemade stock instead of vegetable broth. The rich undertones will take your One Pan Cornellini to another level!

Why not pair this delightful dish with a side of our delicious Chinese Honey Garlic for a truly satisfying meal?

Make Ahead Options

These One Pan Cornellini are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prep ingredients such as cleaning and cutting the corn, chopping the onions, and measuring out the tortellini up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can brown the butter and sear the vegetables up to 3 days ahead, storing them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, simply reheat the sautéed vegetables, add the broth and tortellini, and follow the recipe to incorporate cheeses for that creamy finish. Prepping ahead ensures you’ll savor the same delicious flavor without the rush!

One Pan Cornellini Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use for the One Pan Cornellini?
Absolutely! Fresh corn is ideal for this dish as it adds a delightful sweetness and crunch. If fresh corn isn’t available, you can easily substitute it with frozen corn—just make sure to thaw it beforehand to maintain an even cooking temperature.

How long does One Pan Cornellini last in the fridge?
Very! This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready for round two, gently reheat it on the stovetop. Adding a splash of vegetable broth or water will help you achieve that creamy consistency again!

Can I freeze One Pan Cornellini?
Yes, you can! To freeze, store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, it’s best to thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or water to adjust the sauce back to its hearty, creamy texture.

What if my sauce turns out too thick?
Don’t worry—this happens to the best of us! If your sauce is thicker than desired, simply add water or vegetable broth gradually until you reach that creamy, luscious consistency. Start with a tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously until you get the right balance.

Is One Pan Cornellini suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This dish is vegetarian, and if you’re looking for gluten-free options, you can swap the tortellini for gluten-free pasta. Just double-check that any broth or additional ingredients fit your dietary needs, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this delicious meal.

Can I make One Pan Cornellini ahead of time?
You bet! It’s perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheeses, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and mix in your cheeses for that fresh, creamy finale. It’s a convenient way to have a quick dinner on busy nights!