Cheesy Baked Tortellini is a cozy dish that hits the spot! Packed with tender pasta and rich cheese, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
It’s super easy to make! Just mix the tortellini with sauce, sprinkle on some cheese, and bake until bubbly. Who can resist that gooey goodness? 😋
I love serving it with a simple salad or garlic bread. It’s a great family dinner, and leftovers are just as tasty the next day—if they last that long!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: Use refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini. If you prefer, you can swap in spinach or meat-filled tortellini for a different flavor or texture. Just adjust your cooking time based on the type you choose.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara is convenient; however, feel free to make your own with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs if you have the time. Alternatively, pesto or alfredo sauce can change the dish completely!
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for its melting quality, but you could also use provolone or even a blend of Italian cheeses for more depth. For less dairy, try a vegan cheese that melts well.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme works great. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you enjoy a kick!
How Do I Ensure My Tortellini is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking tortellini perfectly is simple! Follow these steps to avoid mushiness:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt helps flavor the pasta.
- Add the tortellini and stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook for just 3-5 minutes until they float or until al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
- Drain the tortellini in a colander, and do not rinse. You want to keep the sauce adhering to the pasta!
I love keeping an eye on them near the end of the cooking time to ensure they’re just right! This extra care helps the tortellini stay firm and holds up well when baked.
Cheesy Baked Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Optional: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and cheesy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes until they are just tender. Drain them well when finished, but don’t rinse—they need to cling to the sauce!
3. Mix it All Together:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with the marinara sauce. Gently toss them until all the tortellini are nicely coated in the sauce.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the sauced tortellini into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite gets some sauce.
5. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Now it’s time for the cheese! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the tortellini.
6. Season it Up:
Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning over the cheese to add a burst of flavor!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Rest & Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for a few minutes. This helps it set a bit. If you want, garnish with some freshly chopped basil or parsley for a lovely touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cheesy baked tortellini warm, alongside a nice garlic bread or fresh salad. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen cheese tortellini, just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time in boiling water. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply cook them until they’re tender before mixing with the sauce.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but if you want to enhance the flavors without adding meat, consider incorporating sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the mix.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the whole dish up to the baking step, cover it with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Are the Best Leftover Storage Tips?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring until heated through. Enjoy your leftovers!
