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Cheesy 20-Minute Baked Tortellini Recipe

Cheesy 20-Minute Baked Tortellini Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 32 reviews

This Easy 20-Minute Baked Tortellini recipe is a quick, comforting, and delicious dish that combines cheese-filled tortellini with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it comes together fast using simple ingredients and bakes in one dish for easy cleanup. With options to customize by adding veggies or proteins, it’s a versatile meal that satisfies both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 (20-ounce) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (or homemade)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook for 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest to prevent overcooking since they will finish cooking in the oven. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Pour the saucy tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Drizzle with olive oil for extra richness.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes or until the cheese melts and starts to bubble. For a golden, crispy top, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  6. Garnish & Serve: Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Undercook the tortellini slightly during boiling to avoid mushiness after baking.
  • Customize by adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or plant-based sausage for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • To make it creamier, replace half of the marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce.
  • Add breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy crust.
  • Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze unbaked assembled dish for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat baked leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave in short intervals.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked tortellini, easy pasta recipe, cheesy baked pasta, quick dinner, vegetarian comfort food

Find it online: https://foodbylina.com/cheesy-20-minute-baked-tortellini-recipe/