Tortellini Alfredo: Creamy and Rich

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes). Before draining, scoop out 2 cups of the cloudy pasta water and set it aside. Drain the pasta and keep warm.

Place a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Pour in the half-and-half and whisk constantly for 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to simmer and slightly thicken.

Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk vigorously until the cheese is fully incorporated and glossy.

Fold in the cooked tortellini. If the sauce is too thick, whisk in the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a velvety consistency.