Here is a detailed, step-by-step recipe for Cheesy Tortellini & Sausage Bake — hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor.
Serves 6–8.
Ingredients
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini (or frozen, see note below)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier texture)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions until just al dente.
- If using frozen tortellini, boil 1 minute less than package time.
- Drain and set aside.
Do not overcook; it will continue cooking in the oven.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Cook 6–8 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 4: Add Aromatics and Sauce
- Add onion to the skillet and sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in marinara sauce.
- Add heavy cream (if using).
- Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 5 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 5: Combine
- Add cooked tortellini to the sauce mixture.
- Stir gently to coat evenly.
Step 6: Assemble the Bake
- Transfer mixture into prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Add Parmesan cheese on top of mozzarella.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
- Cheese should be melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra browning.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Tips for Best Results
- Use high-quality marinara for best flavor.
- For extra cheesiness, mix 1/2 cup ricotta into the sauce.
- Slightly undercook tortellini to prevent mushy texture.
- If casserole looks dry before baking, add 1/4 cup pasta water.
Optional Variations
Vegetable Boost:
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
White Sauce Version:
- Replace marinara with Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.
Spicy Version:
- Use hot Italian sausage and increase red pepper flakes.
Make-Ahead:
- Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate.
- Add 5–10 extra minutes to baking time if baking cold.