Imagine a dish so irresistibly cheesy and comforting that it transforms an ordinary dinner into a culinary celebration. This Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Bake is your ticket to a mouthwatering meal that combines the classic Italian flavors of marinara, perfectly cooked tortellini, and a golden, bubbling cheese topping. In just 45 minutes, you'll create a crowd-pleasing dinner that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant but requires minimal effort in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package cheese tortellini
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions, typically 3-4 minutes, until they float to the surface. Be careful not to overcook.
- Drain the tortellini in a colander and gently return them to the pot. Pour the marinara sauce over the tortellini and stir carefully to coat each piece evenly.
- Transfer the sauced tortellini to the prepared baking dish, spreading them out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the tortellini, ensuring even coverage.
- Dust the top with grated parmesan cheese and sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly across the dish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with slight golden brown edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to set and cool slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Serve hot directly from the baking dish, accompanied by a side salad or garlic bread if desired.
Tips
- Choose high-quality tortellini: Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini work best for maximum flavor.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Cook tortellini just until they float to prevent a mushy texture.
- Use a good marinara sauce: Opt for a rich, flavorful sauce or homemade marinara for best results.
- Layer cheese strategically: Mix mozzarella and parmesan for a more complex cheese flavor.
- Let the dish rest after baking: This helps the cheese set and makes serving easier.
- Fresh basil is key: Add it just before serving to maintain its bright, aromatic flavor.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding spinach, cooked chicken, or Italian sausage for variety.
- Use a baking dish that allows even heat distribution for perfect cheese melting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
