Get ready to indulge in a dish that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! Our Cheesy Tortellini and Sausage Bake is a mouthwatering Italian masterpiece that combines the rich flavors of savory Italian sausage, creamy cheese tortellini, and a luscious marinara sauce, all topped with gooey melted mozzarella. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this easy-to-make recipe is not only delicious but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can create a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the cooking tips that will make your bake a showstopper!
Ingredients
- 1 package cheese tortellini
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove Italian sausage from its casing and crumble the meat into the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it into small pieces, until the sausage is fully browned and no pink remains.
- While the sausage is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-4 minutes, until they float to the surface. Drain the tortellini and set aside.
- In the baking dish, combine the cooked tortellini, browned sausage, and marinara sauce. Gently mix to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Then, dust with grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with slight golden brown edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired. Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Cook the sausage and tortellini ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake.
- Customize Your Sausage: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage! Sweet, spicy, or even turkey sausage can add a unique twist to your dish.
- Add Veggies: For a nutritional boost, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the mix before baking.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Don’t hesitate to mix different types of cheese! Adding provolone or fontina can elevate the flavor profile and make the dish even more decadent.
- Baking Dish Matters: A 9x13 inch dish is ideal for even cooking, but if you want to make individual servings, consider using ramekins for a fun presentation.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for about 5 minutes after baking helps the cheese set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only adds color but also a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the dish. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious Cheesy Tortellini and Sausage Bake that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 75mg
