Cheesy Baked Tortellini is a cozy and comforting dish that’s perfect for cheese lovers! With tender tortellini wrapped in gooey cheese and rich tomato sauce, it’s a hit for family dinners.
I mean, who can resist cheesy goodness? I usually sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top before baking—it just makes it even more delicious! 😋 Serve it with garlic bread for a perfect meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: The star of the dish! I prefer refrigerated cheese tortellini for its soft texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use homemade tortellini or frozen ones, but cooking times may vary.
Marinara Sauce: You can’t go wrong with marinara sauce. I often use store-bought for convenience, but homemade is easy and tasty too! Feel free to swap with alfredo sauce or pesto if you want a different flavor.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is essential for that gooey melt. I like to mix in some sharp cheddar sometimes! For Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano if that’s what you have. Just remember—freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-grated.
Italian Seasoning: Dried Italian seasoning adds great flavor. If you don’t have it, consider using individual herbs like oregano and basil. Fresh herbs are also lovely if you have some on hand!
How Do You Get the Cheese to Melt Perfectly?
To achieve that amazing cheesy topping, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Don’t skip preheating the oven! It ensures even cooking.
- Keep the tortellini covered loosely with foil for the first part of baking to trap steam, making them tender.
- Uncover it for the last 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to bubble and brown nicely.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to help the cheese set a little.
Cheesy Baked Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Garlic bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that comes together easily—perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your cheesy tortellini gets bubbly and golden as it bakes.
2. Cook the Tortellini:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook them according to package instructions until they are just tender, usually about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the tortellini in a colander and set them aside.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with the marinara sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, and a bit of salt and pepper. Gently toss everything together to coat the tortellini evenly.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This will help prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup. Pour the cheesy tortellini mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the tortellini mixture. This will create a beautifully cheesy layer when baked.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it—look for that gorgeous melted and bubbly cheese turning slightly golden.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes to set a bit. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cheesy baked tortellini warm, and don’t forget to pair it with some tasty garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, there’s no need to thaw them first. Just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time until they’re tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the tortellini mixture and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven—add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to add a splash of marinara sauce to keep it saucy!
What Can I Substitute for Marinara Sauce?
If you’re looking to switch things up, feel free to substitute marinara sauce with alfredo sauce, pesto, or even a homemade cheese sauce for a creamy twist!
