Short Description

Baked Tortellini is a quick and comforting dish made with tender tortellini, rich marinara sauce, and a generous topping of gooey cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this cheesy casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked pasta recipe is simple, satisfying, and ideal for feeding a crowd. Using fresh or frozen tortellini makes it incredibly convenient, and the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses adds a decadent, melty finish. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and sure to become a go-to comfort meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb fresh or frozen tortellini
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain well.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
Add the cooked tortellini in an even layer over the sauce.
Sprinkle garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper over the tortellini.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the sauce.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden top.
Serve hot and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Meat: Mix in cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken for added protein.
Spicy Option: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce for a kick.
Vegetarian Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the tortellini for extra vegetables.
Creamy Version: Add ¼ cup of cream or a spoonful of ricotta to the marinara sauce for a creamier texture.
Cheese Mix: Experiment with other cheeses like fontina, provolone, or a three-cheese blend.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze the baked and cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot (about 15–20 minutes) or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just cook it according to the package instructions before baking.

What size baking dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe, but any similar size will work.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Keep the dish covered with foil during the first part of baking. Remove it only for the final 5 minutes to brown the cheese.

What kind of marinara sauce should I use?

Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce. A garlic- or herb-infused sauce adds extra flavor.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, baked tortellini freezes well. Cool it completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven after thawing.

Can I use meat-filled tortellini?

Absolutely. This recipe works well with any variety of tortellini—cheese, spinach, meat, or even mixed fillings.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat tortellini and reduced-fat cheese, and add in vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Can I cook this without baking?

You can skip baking and serve it as a stovetop pasta dish, but baking helps meld the flavors and melt the cheese beautifully.

What sides go well with baked tortellini?

Serve it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Baked Tortellini is a fast, flavorful, and family-friendly recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its gooey cheese topping, hearty pasta base, and rich marinara flavor, it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

Baked Tortellini

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Author: Douaa
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 6–8 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Baked Tortellini is a quick, cheesy, and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. With gooey mozzarella, tangy marinara, and tender tortellini, this easy oven-baked recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 lb fresh or frozen tortellini
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Tortellini:
Boil tortellini according to package directions until just tender. Drain.
Layer Ingredients:
In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce.
Add cooked tortellini on top.
Sprinkle garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper evenly.
Assemble and Top:
Pour remaining marinara sauce over tortellini.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
Bake Covered:
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Bake Uncovered:
Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve:
Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or salad.

Notes

Customize with added veggies, cooked sausage, or spinach.
• Use refrigerated tortellini for faster prep; no need to thaw frozen tortellini beforehand.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American