Tortellini vs. Tortelloni

Tortellini

Tortellini are ring-shaped pasta, sometimes also described as “navel shaped”, hence their alternative name of “belly button” (ombelico). They are typically stuffed with a mix of meat (pork loin, prosciutto) or cheese. Originally from the Italian region of Emilia (in particular Bologna and Modena), they are usually served in broth, either of beef, chicken, or both.

Packed, refrigerated or frozen, tortellini and tortelloni (similar but larger, with cheese and/or vegetable stuffing) appear in many locations around the world, especially where there are large Italian communities. Tortellini and tortelloni are made in European industrial lines supplying markets in Europe and further afield. “Fresh” packed tortellini usually have 7 weeks of shelf-life.

Tortelloni

Tortelloni are stuffed pasta, the same shape as tortellini, but larger. They are usually stuffed with ricotta cheese and leaf vegetables, such as spinach. Many variants exist where the vegetables are replaced with stronger ingredients such as porcini or walnuts. Another common filling for tortelloni, especially in the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia, is a paste made mainly of pumpkin pulp and amaretti biscuits.

Tortelloni made with ricotta and herbs are usually served either with ragù or with melted butter and sage leaves.