Cheesy Baked Tortellini: A Comfort Food Dream Come True
Craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly delicious meal that’s also relatively easy to make? Look no further than cheesy baked tortellini! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. The combination of tender, cheese-filled tortellini, a rich and flavorful sauce, and a generous blanket of melted cheese is simply irresistible. Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort! This dish is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables, meats, and sauces. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
## Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Tortellini
* **Ultimate Comfort Food:** Melty cheese, hearty pasta, and a flavorful sauce – what’s not to love?
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal prep time and is straightforward to follow.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or bringing to a friend in need.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** Prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this cheesy masterpiece:
* **Tortellini:** 20-24 ounces of refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini. You can also use spinach or meat-filled tortellini for a different flavor profile. Fresh tortellini generally requires less cooking time, so adjust baking time accordingly. If using frozen tortellini, there’s no need to thaw it first.
* **Ground Meat (Optional):** 1 pound of ground beef, Italian sausage, or ground turkey. This adds protein and heartiness to the dish. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat or substitute with plant-based crumbles.
* **Onion:** 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. Adds a savory base flavor to the sauce.
* **Garlic:** 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced. Essential for adding aromatic depth to the sauce. Fresh garlic is recommended, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
* **Canned Tomatoes:** 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes or tomato puree. Forms the base of the sauce. Diced tomatoes can also be used, but the texture will be slightly different. Tomato sauce can be used for a smoother sauce, but you may need to adjust the seasoning.
* **Tomato Paste:** 2 tablespoons. Adds richness and intensifies the tomato flavor.
* **Italian Seasoning:** 1-2 teaspoons. A blend of herbs that adds classic Italian flavor. You can also use a combination of individual herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
* **Red Pepper Flakes (Optional):** ¼ – ½ teaspoon. Adds a touch of heat to the dish. Adjust the amount to your preference or omit if you don’t like spice.
* **Sugar:** 1 teaspoon. Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Essential for seasoning the sauce and bringing out the flavors.
* **Ricotta Cheese:** 15 ounces. Adds creaminess and richness to the dish. Whole milk ricotta is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
* **Egg:** 1 large egg. Helps bind the ricotta cheese mixture together.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** ½ cup, grated. Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the ricotta cheese mixture.
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** 2 cups, shredded. The star of the show! Provides a melty, gooey topping.
* **Fresh Basil (Optional):** For garnish. Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch to the finished dish.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
* 9×13 inch Baking Dish
* Large Mixing Bowl
* Measuring Cups and Spoons
* Cutting Board and Knife
* Grater
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious cheesy baked tortellini:
**1. Prepare the Sauce (If using Ground Meat):**
* If using ground meat, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
**2. Make the Tomato Sauce:**
* Pour in the crushed tomatoes or tomato puree, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
**3. Cook the Tortellini:**
* While the sauce is simmering, cook the tortellini according to the package directions. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the tortellini well.
**4. Prepare the Ricotta Cheese Mixture:**
* In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
* Season the ricotta cheese mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
**5. Assemble the Dish:**
* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce in the bottom of the 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the tortellini from sticking.
* Add the cooked tortellini to the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
* Spoon the ricotta cheese mixture over the tortellini, spreading it out as evenly as possible.
* Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the ricotta cheese mixture, making sure to cover everything.
* Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
**6. Bake the Tortellini:**
* Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
* Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through.
**7. Let it Rest and Serve:**
* Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to slice.
* Garnish with fresh basil (if using) and serve hot. Enjoy!
## Tips and Variations
* **Add Vegetables:** Sauté your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach and add them to the sauce or layer them between the tortellini and ricotta cheese. Roasting the vegetables beforehand can enhance their flavor.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, Monterey Jack, or Asiago for a unique flavor. A blend of cheeses can also be used.
* **Spice it Up:** Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat. You can also use hot Italian sausage instead of mild.
* **Make it Creamy:** Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or sour cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier flavor.
* **Add Pesto:** Swirl a spoonful of pesto into the ricotta cheese mixture or drizzle it over the finished dish for a burst of fresh flavor.
* **Use a Different Sauce:** Try using a creamy Alfredo sauce, a rosé sauce, or a pesto sauce instead of tomato sauce.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the ground meat or substitute it with plant-based crumbles, sautéed vegetables, or lentils.
* **Add a Breadcrumb Topping:** Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and herbs and sprinkle over the top before baking for a crispy topping.
* **Use Different Types of Tortellini:** Experiment with different fillings like spinach and cheese, mushroom, or meat.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
* **Make it Dairy-Free:** Use dairy-free ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese substitutes. You can also use a dairy-free cream sauce.
## Serving Suggestions
Cheesy baked tortellini is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes:
* **Garlic Bread:** A classic pairing that’s perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Side Salad:** A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tortellini.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are healthy and flavorful additions.
* **Caesar Salad:** A creamy Caesar salad adds another layer of indulgence.
* **Soup:** A light soup, such as tomato soup or minestrone, can be a comforting accompaniment.
## Make-Ahead Instructions
This cheesy baked tortellini is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold from the refrigerator.
## Storage and Reheating Instructions
* **Storage:** Leftover cheesy baked tortellini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven. To reheat in the oven, cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking to crisp up the cheese.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Here is an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):
* Calories: 400-500
* Fat: 20-30g
* Saturated Fat: 10-15g
* Cholesterol: 100-150mg
* Sodium: 500-700mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
* Fiber: 2-4g
* Sugar: 5-10g
* Protein: 20-25g
## Cheesy Baked Tortellini Recipe Card
**Yields:** 8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 45 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 20-24 ounces cheese tortellini, refrigerated or frozen
* 1 pound ground beef, Italian sausage, or ground turkey (optional)
* 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
* 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
* 28 ounces crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 1-2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
* ¼ – ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 15 ounces ricotta cheese
* 1 large egg
* ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. If using ground meat, brown it in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. While the sauce is simmering, cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain well.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Add cooked tortellini.
7. Spoon ricotta cheese mixture over the tortellini, spreading evenly. Pour remaining sauce over the ricotta cheese mixture.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
10. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and sauce is heated through.
11. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil (if using) and serve hot.
Enjoy this comforting and delicious cheesy baked tortellini! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a perfect meal for any occasion.