All Recipes

Cheesy Italian Tortellini Bake

50 min 6 servings Easy
This Cheesy Italian Tortellini Bake is a delightful fusion of comforting pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special yet is easy to prepare. The combination of tender tortellini and a blend of cheeses creates a satisfying dish that's both hearty and flavourful. This version emphasizes ease and flavour, ensuring that even novice cooks can achieve a delicious outcome. Ideal for families and pasta lovers alike, this dish brings the taste of Italy into your home with minimal fuss and maximum flavour.

Instructions

1

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2

Cook the tortellini

Cook the tortellini in a large pot of salted boiling water until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain well.

Pro tip: Avoid overcooking the tortellini as it will continue to cook in the oven.

3

Prepare the sauce

In a saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and oregano, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking.

4

Assemble the bake

In a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce. Layer half of the cooked tortellini, half of the remaining sauce, and half of the grated mozzarella. Repeat with the remaining tortellini, sauce, and mozzarella.

Pro tip: Ensure tortellini are evenly coated with sauce for best flavour.

5

Add the cheese topping

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

Pro tip: For a golden crust, you can broil the top for a few minutes after baking.

6

Bake the dish

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

7

Rest and serve

Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the bake set and makes it easier to serve.

💡

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh or refrigerated tortellini for the best texture.
  • Grate your cheese fresh for optimal melt and flavour.
  • Let the bake rest before serving for easier slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to cook tortellini before baking?

Cook tortellini for about 3-4 minutes until just tender before baking.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just ensure to thaw and cook them according to package instructions before assembling the bake.

What cheese is best for Italian tortellini?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are ideal for a cheesy tortellini bake, providing a creamy texture and rich flavour.

How many calories are in cheesy Italian tortellini?

This cheesy Italian tortellini bake contains about 450 calories per serving.

Can I make tortellini bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheesy tortellini bake with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light red wine, such as Chianti, pairs beautifully with the rich tomato sauce and cheese. If you're planning ahead, this dish can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

20g

Protein

20g

Fat

50g

Carbs