Why ALDI’s Cheese Tortelloni is a Must-Have for Quick & Easy Meals

If you’re searching for the perfect weeknight meal solution that's quick, delicious, and budget-friendly, look no further than ALDI’s Priano Cheese Tortelloni. Priced at just $2.99 per pack, this refrigerated, fresh pasta cooks in only two minutes, making it an ideal staple for busy households. Food writer and chef Robin Asbell shares her experience with this affordable Italian-inspired delight, explaining why it has become a go-to option for her and her vegetarian husband, who loves cheesy dishes. Recommended by her Italian friend Michael, this tortelloni is a superior alternative to dried or frozen varieties, as it holds its shape without crumbling and has a smooth ricotta filling instead of a grainy texture.

How to Turn ALDI's Cheese Tortelloni into a Complete Meal

One of the best aspects of this tortelloni is its versatility. Robin shares her simple yet delicious method to create a hearty, well-balanced meal in just minutes:
  1. Start boiling water – Since the tortelloni only takes 2 minutes to cook, this should be the first step.
  2. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil to build flavor.
  3. Depending on the season, toss in fresh vegetables:
    • Spring & Summer: Asparagus, peas, zucchini, cherry tomatoes.
    • Fall & Winter: Butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, shredded kale.
  4. Once veggies are tender and caramelized, mix them with the drained tortelloni and finish with Parmesan cheese. Optional add-ins like lemon zest, olives, dried herbs, or (if not vegetarian) even bacon, can enhance the flavor.
  5. Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Other Delicious Ways to Use ALDI’s Cheese Tortelloni

Aside from the sautéed veggie method, you can get creative and use ALDI’s Priano Cheese Tortelloni in numerous ways:

🍝 Swap in for Classic Pasta Dishes

  • Replace regular pasta with tortelloni in Puttanesca, Alfredo, or even Bolognese sauces for an indulgent, cheesy twist.

🍲 Make a Quick & Comforting Soup

  • Prepare Tortelloni en Brodo by simply boiling tortelloni in chicken or vegetable broth for a cozy, Italian-style soup.
  • Elevate Minestrone soup by substituting traditional pasta with tortelloni.

🥗 Upgrade Pasta Salads

  • Toss tortelloni with vinaigrette, mozzarella balls, and fresh veggies for a flavorful pasta salad, perfect for potlucks or lunch meal prep.

🍢 Serve as a Fun Party Appetizer

  • Skewer cooked tortelloni, grape tomatoes, basil leaves, and olives for a fun finger-food platter, drizzled with Italian dressing.

🍲 Bake it for a Cheesy & Satisfying Meal

  • Substitute tortelloni for other pasta in baked pasta dishes, letting it finish cooking in the oven by absorbing the sauce.

Why ALDI’s Cheese Tortelloni Stands Out

There are plenty of frozen or dried tortelloni options on the market, but ALDI’s version offers:
  • Better Texture & Flavor - The ricotta-based filling is smoother and creamier rather than grainy.
  • Durability - Unlike some frozen versions that fall apart in boiling water, these stay intact.
  • Affordability - $2.99 for 9 ounces is considerably cheaper than most fresh tortelloni brands.
  • Speed & Convenience - Cooks in just 2 minutes, making meal prep effortless.

Final Thoughts: Stock Up on ALDI’s Cheese Tortelloni

Robin Asbell, along with many ALDI fans, swears by keeping a few packs of ALDI's Priano Cheese Tortelloni in the fridge at all times. Whether mixed with sautéed seasonal veggies, thrown into a quick Italian soup, or added to a baked pasta dish, this affordable and high-quality meal solution is one you’ll want to grab on your next ALDI grocery run. Next time you’re at ALDI, consider stocking up—you’ll thank yourself later when you need a delicious, low-effort meal on a hectic weeknight! 🌟🍽️