Tortellini Pasta Bake

This Tortellini Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor. Made with cheese-filled tortellini, a rich tomato or Alfredo sauce, and a golden, bubbly cheese topping, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. It’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy and indulgent – Loaded with gooey, melted cheese in every bite.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
• Versatile – Use your favorite sauce and add-ins to customize it.
• Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for feeding a family or a group of friends.
• Great for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• Marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
• Garlic, minced
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the tortellini:
   Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce:
   In a large bowl, mix the cooked tortellini with your choice of marinara or Alfredo sauce. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Layer the bake:
   Spread half of the tortellini mixture in a greased baking dish. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese (if using) over the top, then sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan. Add the remaining tortellini mixture and top with another generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Bake:
   Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
6. Garnish and serve:
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Meat lovers: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken.
• Veggie-packed: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
• Spicy kick: Use a spicy marinara sauce or add extra red pepper flakes.
• White sauce version: Use Alfredo sauce and add a sprinkle of nutmeg for depth.
• Extra cheesy: Add a layer of provolone or fontina cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen tortellini?
  Yes, just adjust the cooking time slightly if baking from frozen.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Absolutely! Assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
  Yes! Assemble the bake, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
• Can I use a different pasta?
  Yes, ravioli or gnocchi would work well too.
• What can I serve with this bake?
  Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Can I make it vegetarian?
  It’s already vegetarian as written, but ensure your tortellini and sauces are vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion
This Tortellini Pasta Bake is a comforting, cheesy, and irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or just craving something cozy, this bake is sure to hit the spot. With its simple preparation and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Enjoy!

Print