Sarah Mitchell
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bubbling casserole straight from the oven, and this cheesy baked tortellini casserole is here to deliver all the cozy vibes. Picture soft, tender tortellini smothered in rich marinara sauce, layered with melty cheese, and baked to perfection. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is shockingly easy to make – perfect for weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing potluck. Let’s dive into this cheesy goodness!
Ingredients You’ll Need
1. Tortellini (20 oz)
You’ll need fresh or frozen tortellini, stuffed with cheese or your preferred filling. Tortellini is the heart of this recipe, offering that pillowy texture we all love.
Quick Tip: If using frozen tortellini, no need to thaw – they’ll bake up beautifully in the casserole.
2. Marinara Sauce (3 cups)
A good-quality marinara sauce makes all the difference here. It’s the base that brings the flavors together.
Quick Tip: Go for a jarred sauce you love or make it homemade if you’re feeling ambitious.
3. Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded)
This gooey, stretchy cheese creates that perfect golden crust on top.
Quick Tip: Shred your mozzarella fresh for the best melt – pre-shredded cheese can sometimes be a little dry.
4. Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
Parmesan adds that nutty, salty punch to balance the richness.
Quick Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor.
5. Heavy Cream (1/4 cup)
This adds creaminess to the sauce, making it luxuriously smooth.
Quick Tip: If you don’t have cream, half-and-half works well too.
6. Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
A little garlic goes a long way to boost the sauce’s depth of flavor.
Quick Tip: Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds to unlock its aroma before mixing into the sauce.
7. Italian Seasoning (1 tsp)
This blend of herbs ties all the flavors together.
Quick Tip: If you don’t have a mix, use a combo of oregano, basil, and thyme.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole will bake evenly and get that irresistible golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, warm your marinara sauce over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 3: Combine the Tortellini and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, toss the tortellini with the prepared sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread half the tortellini mixture on the bottom. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat with the remaining tortellini and top with the rest of the cheese.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Trust me, this helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to dish out.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish: The perfect size for this casserole.
- Large skillet: For preparing the sauce.
- Mixing bowl: To toss the tortellini and sauce together.
- Aluminum foil: Helps prevent the cheese from over-browning during the first part of baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly in this recipe. Just add them directly to the sauce – no need to boil them first.
What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to experiment! Ricotta, Gruyere, or even a sprinkle of sharp cheddar can add unique flavors.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I add protein?
Of course! Cooked Italian sausage, shredded chicken, or ground beef can be layered into the casserole for a heartier meal.
Is there a vegetarian option?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just double-check your tortellini filling and marinara sauce to ensure they’re veggie-friendly.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftovers freeze beautifully. Portion them into airtight containers, freeze, and reheat in the oven or microwave when needed.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited to try this cheesy baked tortellini casserole as I am to share it with you! It’s a dish that brings joy to the table and is guaranteed to disappear fast. Don’t forget to click the share buttons below to spread the love on Facebook or save this recipe to Pinterest for your next meal inspiration. Enjoy! 🍽️
