If you’re craving a cozy and irresistibly cheesy dinner that comes together with minimal fuss, this Baked Tortellini Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender cheese-filled tortellini bathed in a creamy, flavorful marinara sauce and topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a dish that feels both comforting and celebratory. Perfect for weeknight meals or when you want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen, this baked tortellini combines simple ingredients into a heartwarming, cheesy pasta bake that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Baked Tortellini Recipe is a star on its own but also plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color you’ll love. From the creamy sauce to the cheeses that brown beautifully on top, every element is thoughtful and essential.
- Cheese tortellini (20 oz): The pasta pockets stuffed with cheese are the heart of this dish and bring rich, creamy bites.
- Marinara sauce (2 cups): Adds bright, tangy tomato flavor that melds beautifully with the cheese and cream.
- Heavy cream or whole milk (1/2 cup): Creates a silky, luscious sauce that perfectly coats the tortellini.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A fragrant blend of herbs that gives the sauce an authentic Italian flair.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds that warm, aromatic depth without the need for fresh garlic prep.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a subtle spicy kick to round out the taste.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into a stretchy, gooey topping that’s irresistibly inviting.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and a golden crust on the bake.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Drizzled on top for a glossy finish and slight fruity richness.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): A fresh, herbal garnish bringing color and a burst of brightness.
How to Make Baked Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pasta
Start by heating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini just until al dente—about 2 minutes less than package instructions—to ensure they hold up during baking without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
While the tortellini cooks, whisk together the marinara sauce, heavy cream or whole milk, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This blend creates the perfect creamy and savory base for coating the pasta with plenty of flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Combine Tortellini and Sauce
Drain the cooked tortellini well, then add it to the bowl with the creamy marinara sauce. Gently toss everything together, making sure each cheesy pasta pouch is thoroughly coated in the luscious sauce, setting the stage for that fantastic bake.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish and Bake
Pour the sauced tortellini into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Drizzle olive oil across the surface which will help develop a beautiful, golden crust. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Step 5: Finish Baking for a Golden Top
After the initial baking time, remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and irresistibly golden brown. This final step ensures you get that perfect cheese pull and that crave-worthy crispy top layer.
How to Serve Baked Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley add a beautiful pop of green color and a fresh herbal note. They brighten up the rich, cheesy pasta making it feel lighter and more vibrant on the plate. Don’t be shy to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan at serving time too.
Side Dishes
This baked tortellini shines best alongside simple, fresh sides that don’t compete with its richness. Consider a crisp mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, garlic bread for dipping in the sauce, or roasted seasonal vegetables for added texture and nutrition balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the baked tortellini in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for personal portions, perfect when entertaining guests. You can also throw in cooked sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, customized version that keeps things exciting meal after meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover baked tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld even more after resting, so it tastes just as good reheated—just keep an eye on the cheese so it doesn’t dry out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes beautifully. Just assemble and bake as usual, then cool completely before wrapping tightly and freezing. Alternatively, freeze unbaked tortellini mixture in a freezer-safe dish, then bake from frozen by adding extra baking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through and bubbly again. To revive the crispy cheese topping, finish uncovered in the oven for a few minutes after microwaving. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help maintain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works well in this baked recipe; just be sure to slightly undercook it before baking so it doesn’t turn mushy in the oven.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole milk as a lighter option, or even half-and-half. Just keep in mind that heavy cream gives the sauce that extra richness and creaminess.
Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?
To make a vegan or dairy-free baked tortellini, try using plant-based cheese alternatives and substitute the cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream. Also, choose a vegan tortellini filling to keep the flavors on point.
What can I add to make this recipe more filling?
For a heartier meal, toss in cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. These add texture and extra nutrition without losing the comforting vibe.
How do I avoid the pasta getting too watery after baking?
Cooking the tortellini slightly less than recommended before baking is key to preventing sogginess. Also, make sure to drain the pasta well and avoid adding excess liquid to the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Tortellini Recipe is a trusty go-to whenever you want a simple yet indulgent family dinner that feels special. With minimal prep and ingredients you probably already have, it delivers maximum comfort and cheesy satisfaction every time. Trust me—you’ll be dreaming of those golden, bubbly bites long after the last forkful. Grab your favorite baking dish and get ready to make this a regular on your dinner rotation!
Print
Baked Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Tortellini Recipe is a comforting and cheesy Italian-inspired dish featuring tender refrigerated cheese tortellini baked in a creamy marinara sauce with Italian seasoning and plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for an easy family meal and can be customized with meats or veggies for extra heartiness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook for 2 minutes less than the package directions indicate to keep them slightly firm. Drain the tortellini thoroughly.
- Mix Sauce and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, heavy cream (or whole milk), Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a creamy and flavorful sauce.
- Toss Tortellini with Sauce: Add the drained tortellini to the sauce mixture and toss gently to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy marinara.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the coated tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.
- Add Olive Oil and Cover: Drizzle the tablespoon of olive oil across the top. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in while baking.
- Bake Covered: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake covered for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or sautéed vegetables to the sauce for a heartier meal.
- You can use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce based on your preference.
- Heavy cream can be swapped with whole milk for a lighter version but the sauce will be less rich.
- Covering with foil during the first baking phase keeps the tortellini moist and prevents cheese from drying out.
