Tortellini are ring-shaped pasta, sometimes also described as "navel shaped", hence their alternative name of "belly button". They are typically stuffed with a mix of meat or cheese. Originally from the Italian region of Emilia, they are usually served in broth, either of beef, chicken or both.

Packed, refrigerated or frozen, tortellini and tortelloni (similar but larger, with cheese 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.