Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole Wholesome Comfort Dish

ByJasmine
- 1 package (9-10 oz) cheese tortellini - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 cup ricotta cheese The main ingredients form the heart of this dish. The cheese tortellini brings a soft, chewy texture. Marinara sauce adds rich, tomato flavor. Ricotta cheese gives it a creamy touch. - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese These dairy components create a golden, bubbly top. Mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds a sharp taste. Together, they elevate the flavors and texture of this casserole. - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste Seasonings and add-ins enhance the dish. Italian herbs provide warmth and depth. Garlic adds a fragrant note. Olive oil adds richness. Salt and pepper balance the flavors, making each bite delicious. - Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking. - Cook the Cheese Tortellini Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add 1 package (9-10 oz) of cheese tortellini. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the tortellini and set it aside. - Sautéing Garlic In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. - Adding Marinara and Herbs Next, stir in 2 cups of marinara sauce and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. This will let the flavors blend nicely. - Mixing Cheese and Tortellini In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with 1 cup of ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste. - Transferring to Baking Dish Pour the marinara sauce into the tortellini and cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine everything. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. - Cover with Foil Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This helps cook the dish evenly. - Removing Foil for Golden Finish After 20 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. This step gives you that delicious, crispy top. To make the best cheesy baked tortellini casserole, focus on cooking the tortellini just right. You want them al dente, which means firm but cooked. Follow the package instructions closely. If you overcook them, they will become mushy in the oven. For the cheese, balance is key. Use both ricotta and mozzarella for creaminess. Mixing them with the tortellini creates a delicious texture. Add a bit of Parmesan for extra flavor. This combo gives you that gooey, cheesy consistency everyone loves. Pair your casserole with fresh salad or garlic bread. A crisp green salad offers a nice contrast to the richness of the dish. Garlic bread adds a warm, buttery touch. Both sides make your meal feel complete. For garnishes, fresh basil leaves brighten the dish. Just sprinkle a few on top before serving. They add color and a fresh taste that makes it even better. After your meal, store leftovers in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it cools down before sealing it up. This helps keep the flavors fresh. When reheating, use the oven for best results. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until it's warm all the way through. Enjoy your cozy meal again! {{image_2}} Using Meats like Chicken or Sausage You can add meats to this dish for extra taste. Cooked chicken or sausage works well. Just chop them into small pieces. Mix them in with the tortellini and cheese. This swap adds protein and makes it heartier. Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition Adding veggies boosts nutrition and flavor. Try spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté the veggies until soft, then mix them in. This swap makes the dish colorful and healthy. Incorporating Spices or Hot Sauce Want to spice things up? Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Just a pinch can add a nice kick. Mix in your favorite spices to create a unique taste. Using Different Cheese Types Experiment with different cheeses for new flavors. Gouda, cheddar, or feta can all work. Just remember to keep the same amounts. Mixing cheeses can make your casserole even creamier. Gluten-Free Options For a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer great options now. You can still enjoy the same cheesy goodness without the gluten. Vegan Modifications To make this dish vegan, swap out the cheese. Use vegan cheese or make a cashew cream. You can also replace the ricotta with tofu. These swaps keep the dish creamy and delicious. - 1 package (9-10 oz) cheese tortellini - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Cook the cheese tortellini as the package directs. Drain and set aside. 3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 4. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. 5. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian herbs. Simmer for 5 minutes. 6. In a large bowl, mix the cooked tortellini, ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, and Parmesan. 7. Season with salt and pepper. 8. Pour the sauce into the tortellini mixture and stir gently. 9. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. 10. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. 11. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. 12. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown. 13. Let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. - Prep Time: 20 minutes - Cook Time: 30 minutes - Total Time: 50 minutes - Servings: 4-6 Yes, you can use fresh tortellini. Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen. If you use fresh, reduce boiling time to just 2-3 minutes. Check the package for any specific instructions. Fresh tortellini has a softer texture, which may change the casserole’s final feel. The taste remains delicious. To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. Leftovers last up to four days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving. Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just take it out and follow the baking instructions. This method is great for busy days. This blog post provided a clear guide on making a cheese tortellini casserole. We discussed key ingredients like cheese, marinara sauce, and seasonings. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparation, cooking, and baking. I also shared tips for the best textures and serving ideas. In the end, feel free to get creative with ingredient swaps and variations. Cooking should be fun, and this casserole is easy to customize! Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with family and friends.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

When you’re craving a warm and cheesy meal, this Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole hits the spot. With layers of cheese, marinara, and tender tortellini, it’s comfort food at its best. I’ll guide you through each step to make this dish simple and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, get ready to impress with a casserole that’s not just tasty but also easy to whip up!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting and Hearty: This cheesy baked tortellini casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  3. Customizable: You can easily swap out the cheeses or add your favorite vegetables to make this casserole your own.
  4. Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 package (9-10 oz) cheese tortellini
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese

The main ingredients form the heart of this dish. The cheese tortellini brings a soft, chewy texture. Marinara sauce adds rich, tomato flavor. Ricotta cheese gives it a creamy touch.

Dairy Components

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

These dairy components create a golden, bubbly top. Mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds a sharp taste. Together, they elevate the flavors and texture of this casserole.

Seasonings and Add-ins

  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Seasonings and add-ins enhance the dish. Italian herbs provide warmth and depth. Garlic adds a fragrant note. Olive oil adds richness. Salt and pepper balance the flavors, making each bite delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking.

  • Cook the Cheese Tortellini

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add 1 package (9-10 oz) of cheese tortellini. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the tortellini and set it aside.

Making the Sauce

  • Sautéing Garlic

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1 minute.

  • Adding Marinara and Herbs

Next, stir in 2 cups of marinara sauce and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. This will let the flavors blend nicely.

Combining Ingredients

  • Mixing Cheese and Tortellini

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with 1 cup of ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

  • Transferring to Baking Dish

Pour the marinara sauce into the tortellini and cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine everything. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Baking the Casserole

  • Cover with Foil

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This helps cook the dish evenly.

  • Removing Foil for Golden Finish

After 20 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. This step gives you that delicious, crispy top.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality cheese can elevate the flavor of your casserole significantly.
  2. Customize Your Sauces: Feel free to experiment with different marinara sauces or add a splash of cream for a richer taste.
  3. Make It Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!
  4. Watch the Cheese: Keep an eye on the cheese while baking to prevent it from burning. You want it golden and bubbly!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Texture

To make the best cheesy baked tortellini casserole, focus on cooking the tortellini just right. You want them al dente, which means firm but cooked. Follow the package instructions closely. If you overcook them, they will become mushy in the oven.

For the cheese, balance is key. Use both ricotta and mozzarella for creaminess. Mixing them with the tortellini creates a delicious texture. Add a bit of Parmesan for extra flavor. This combo gives you that gooey, cheesy consistency everyone loves.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your casserole with fresh salad or garlic bread. A crisp green salad offers a nice contrast to the richness of the dish. Garlic bread adds a warm, buttery touch. Both sides make your meal feel complete.

For garnishes, fresh basil leaves brighten the dish. Just sprinkle a few on top before serving. They add color and a fresh taste that makes it even better.

Storage Recommendations

After your meal, store leftovers in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it cools down before sealing it up. This helps keep the flavors fresh.

When reheating, use the oven for best results. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until it’s warm all the way through. Enjoy your cozy meal again!

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

Using Meats like Chicken or Sausage

You can add meats to this dish for extra taste. Cooked chicken or sausage works well. Just chop them into small pieces. Mix them in with the tortellini and cheese. This swap adds protein and makes it heartier.

Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition

Adding veggies boosts nutrition and flavor. Try spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté the veggies until soft, then mix them in. This swap makes the dish colorful and healthy.

Flavor Enhancements

Incorporating Spices or Hot Sauce

Want to spice things up? Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Just a pinch can add a nice kick. Mix in your favorite spices to create a unique taste.

Using Different Cheese Types

Experiment with different cheeses for new flavors. Gouda, cheddar, or feta can all work. Just remember to keep the same amounts. Mixing cheeses can make your casserole even creamier.

Dietary Adjustments

Gluten-Free Options

For a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer great options now. You can still enjoy the same cheesy goodness without the gluten.

Vegan Modifications

To make this dish vegan, swap out the cheese. Use vegan cheese or make a cashew cream. You can also replace the ricotta with tofu. These swaps keep the dish creamy and delicious.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the cheese tortellini as the package directs. Drain and set aside.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

4. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.

5. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian herbs. Simmer for 5 minutes.

6. In a large bowl, mix the cooked tortellini, ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, and Parmesan.

7. Season with salt and pepper.

8. Pour the sauce into the tortellini mixture and stir gently.

9. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

10. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

11. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

12. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

13. Let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Cooking Time Info

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6

FAQs

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh tortellini. Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen. If you use fresh, reduce boiling time to just 2-3 minutes. Check the package for any specific instructions. Fresh tortellini has a softer texture, which may change the casserole’s final feel. The taste remains delicious.

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. Leftovers last up to four days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just take it out and follow the baking instructions. This method is great for busy days.

This blog post provided a clear guide on making a cheese tortellini casserole. We discussed key ingredients like cheese, marinara sauce, and seasonings. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparation, cooking, and baking. I also shared tips for the best textures and serving ideas.

In the end, feel free to get creative with ingredient swaps and variations. Cooking should be fun, and this casserole is easy to customize! Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with family and friends.

- 1 package (9-10 oz) cheese tortellini - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 cup ricotta cheese The main ingredients form the heart of this dish. The cheese tortellini brings a soft, chewy texture. Marinara sauce adds rich, tomato flavor. Ricotta cheese gives it a creamy touch. - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese These dairy components create a golden, bubbly top. Mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds a sharp taste. Together, they elevate the flavors and texture of this casserole. - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste Seasonings and add-ins enhance the dish. Italian herbs provide warmth and depth. Garlic adds a fragrant note. Olive oil adds richness. Salt and pepper balance the flavors, making each bite delicious. - Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking. - Cook the Cheese Tortellini Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add 1 package (9-10 oz) of cheese tortellini. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the tortellini and set it aside. - Sautéing Garlic In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. - Adding Marinara and Herbs Next, stir in 2 cups of marinara sauce and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. This will let the flavors blend nicely. - Mixing Cheese and Tortellini In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with 1 cup of ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste. - Transferring to Baking Dish Pour the marinara sauce into the tortellini and cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine everything. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. - Cover with Foil Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This helps cook the dish evenly. - Removing Foil for Golden Finish After 20 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. This step gives you that delicious, crispy top. To make the best cheesy baked tortellini casserole, focus on cooking the tortellini just right. You want them al dente, which means firm but cooked. Follow the package instructions closely. If you overcook them, they will become mushy in the oven. For the cheese, balance is key. Use both ricotta and mozzarella for creaminess. Mixing them with the tortellini creates a delicious texture. Add a bit of Parmesan for extra flavor. This combo gives you that gooey, cheesy consistency everyone loves. Pair your casserole with fresh salad or garlic bread. A crisp green salad offers a nice contrast to the richness of the dish. Garlic bread adds a warm, buttery touch. Both sides make your meal feel complete. For garnishes, fresh basil leaves brighten the dish. Just sprinkle a few on top before serving. They add color and a fresh taste that makes it even better. After your meal, store leftovers in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it cools down before sealing it up. This helps keep the flavors fresh. When reheating, use the oven for best results. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until it's warm all the way through. Enjoy your cozy meal again! {{image_2}} Using Meats like Chicken or Sausage You can add meats to this dish for extra taste. Cooked chicken or sausage works well. Just chop them into small pieces. Mix them in with the tortellini and cheese. This swap adds protein and makes it heartier. Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition Adding veggies boosts nutrition and flavor. Try spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté the veggies until soft, then mix them in. This swap makes the dish colorful and healthy. Incorporating Spices or Hot Sauce Want to spice things up? Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Just a pinch can add a nice kick. Mix in your favorite spices to create a unique taste. Using Different Cheese Types Experiment with different cheeses for new flavors. Gouda, cheddar, or feta can all work. Just remember to keep the same amounts. Mixing cheeses can make your casserole even creamier. Gluten-Free Options For a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer great options now. You can still enjoy the same cheesy goodness without the gluten. Vegan Modifications To make this dish vegan, swap out the cheese. Use vegan cheese or make a cashew cream. You can also replace the ricotta with tofu. These swaps keep the dish creamy and delicious. - 1 package (9-10 oz) cheese tortellini - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Cook the cheese tortellini as the package directs. Drain and set aside. 3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 4. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. 5. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian herbs. Simmer for 5 minutes. 6. In a large bowl, mix the cooked tortellini, ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, and Parmesan. 7. Season with salt and pepper. 8. Pour the sauce into the tortellini mixture and stir gently. 9. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. 10. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. 11. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. 12. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown. 13. Let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. - Prep Time: 20 minutes - Cook Time: 30 minutes - Total Time: 50 minutes - Servings: 4-6 Yes, you can use fresh tortellini. Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen. If you use fresh, reduce boiling time to just 2-3 minutes. Check the package for any specific instructions. Fresh tortellini has a softer texture, which may change the casserole’s final feel. The taste remains delicious. To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. Leftovers last up to four days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving. Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just take it out and follow the baking instructions. This method is great for busy days. This blog post provided a clear guide on making a cheese tortellini casserole. We discussed key ingredients like cheese, marinara sauce, and seasonings. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparation, cooking, and baking. I also shared tips for the best textures and serving ideas. In the end, feel free to get creative with ingredient swaps and variations. Cooking should be fun, and this casserole is easy to customize! Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with family and friends.

Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole

Indulge in the cheesy goodness of this Baked Tortellini Casserole! This delicious recipe combines tender cheese tortellini with rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella for a cozy meal perfect for any night. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a comforting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Click through to discover how to make this irresistible casserole tonight!
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Ingredients
  

1 package (9-10 oz) cheese tortellini

2 cups marinara sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

        Stir in the marinara sauce and dried Italian herbs. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.

          In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

            Pour the marinara sauce into the tortellini mixture and stir gently to combine everything thoroughly.

              Transfer the tortellini mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

                Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

                  Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.

                    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

                      Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 50 mins | Servings: 4-6

                        - 1 package (9-10 oz) cheese tortellini - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 cup ricotta cheese The main ingredients form the heart of this dish. The cheese tortellini brings a soft, chewy texture. Marinara sauce adds rich, tomato flavor. Ricotta cheese gives it a creamy touch. - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese These dairy components create a golden, bubbly top. Mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds a sharp taste. Together, they elevate the flavors and texture of this casserole. - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste Seasonings and add-ins enhance the dish. Italian herbs provide warmth and depth. Garlic adds a fragrant note. Olive oil adds richness. Salt and pepper balance the flavors, making each bite delicious. - Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking. - Cook the Cheese Tortellini Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add 1 package (9-10 oz) of cheese tortellini. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the tortellini and set it aside. - Sautéing Garlic In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. - Adding Marinara and Herbs Next, stir in 2 cups of marinara sauce and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. This will let the flavors blend nicely. - Mixing Cheese and Tortellini In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with 1 cup of ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste. - Transferring to Baking Dish Pour the marinara sauce into the tortellini and cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine everything. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. - Cover with Foil Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This helps cook the dish evenly. - Removing Foil for Golden Finish After 20 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. This step gives you that delicious, crispy top. To make the best cheesy baked tortellini casserole, focus on cooking the tortellini just right. You want them al dente, which means firm but cooked. Follow the package instructions closely. If you overcook them, they will become mushy in the oven. For the cheese, balance is key. Use both ricotta and mozzarella for creaminess. Mixing them with the tortellini creates a delicious texture. Add a bit of Parmesan for extra flavor. This combo gives you that gooey, cheesy consistency everyone loves. Pair your casserole with fresh salad or garlic bread. A crisp green salad offers a nice contrast to the richness of the dish. Garlic bread adds a warm, buttery touch. Both sides make your meal feel complete. For garnishes, fresh basil leaves brighten the dish. Just sprinkle a few on top before serving. They add color and a fresh taste that makes it even better. After your meal, store leftovers in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it cools down before sealing it up. This helps keep the flavors fresh. When reheating, use the oven for best results. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until it's warm all the way through. Enjoy your cozy meal again! {{image_2}} Using Meats like Chicken or Sausage You can add meats to this dish for extra taste. Cooked chicken or sausage works well. Just chop them into small pieces. Mix them in with the tortellini and cheese. This swap adds protein and makes it heartier. Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition Adding veggies boosts nutrition and flavor. Try spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté the veggies until soft, then mix them in. This swap makes the dish colorful and healthy. Incorporating Spices or Hot Sauce Want to spice things up? Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Just a pinch can add a nice kick. Mix in your favorite spices to create a unique taste. Using Different Cheese Types Experiment with different cheeses for new flavors. Gouda, cheddar, or feta can all work. Just remember to keep the same amounts. Mixing cheeses can make your casserole even creamier. Gluten-Free Options For a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer great options now. You can still enjoy the same cheesy goodness without the gluten. Vegan Modifications To make this dish vegan, swap out the cheese. Use vegan cheese or make a cashew cream. You can also replace the ricotta with tofu. These swaps keep the dish creamy and delicious. - 1 package (9-10 oz) cheese tortellini - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Cook the cheese tortellini as the package directs. Drain and set aside. 3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 4. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. 5. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian herbs. Simmer for 5 minutes. 6. In a large bowl, mix the cooked tortellini, ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, and Parmesan. 7. Season with salt and pepper. 8. Pour the sauce into the tortellini mixture and stir gently. 9. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. 10. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. 11. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. 12. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown. 13. Let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. - Prep Time: 20 minutes - Cook Time: 30 minutes - Total Time: 50 minutes - Servings: 4-6 Yes, you can use fresh tortellini. Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen. If you use fresh, reduce boiling time to just 2-3 minutes. Check the package for any specific instructions. Fresh tortellini has a softer texture, which may change the casserole’s final feel. The taste remains delicious. To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. Leftovers last up to four days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving. Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just take it out and follow the baking instructions. This method is great for busy days. This blog post provided a clear guide on making a cheese tortellini casserole. We discussed key ingredients like cheese, marinara sauce, and seasonings. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparation, cooking, and baking. I also shared tips for the best textures and serving ideas. In the end, feel free to get creative with ingredient swaps and variations. Cooking should be fun, and this casserole is easy to customize! Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with family and friends.

                        Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole

                        A delicious and comforting casserole featuring cheese tortellini, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses.
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                        Prep Time 20 minutes
                        Cook Time 30 minutes
                        Total Time 50 minutes
                        Course Main Course
                        Cuisine Italian
                        Servings 4 servings

                        Ingredients
                          

                        • 1 package cheese tortellini (9-10 oz)
                        • 2 cups marinara sauce
                        • 1 cup ricotta cheese
                        • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
                        • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
                        • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
                        • 2 cloves garlic, minced
                        • 1 tablespoon olive oil
                        • to taste salt and pepper
                        • for garnish fresh basil leaves

                        Instructions
                         

                        • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
                        • Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
                        • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
                        • Stir in the marinara sauce and dried Italian herbs. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
                        • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
                        • Pour the marinara sauce into the tortellini mixture and stir gently to combine everything thoroughly.
                        • Transfer the tortellini mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
                        • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
                        • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
                        • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

                        Notes

                        Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving for better slicing.
                        Keyword baked, casserole, cheesy, tortellini

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