Name: Cheesy 20-Minute Baked Tortellini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
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 (plus more for greasing the dish); Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy 20-Minute Baked Tortellini is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. With gooey cheese, savory marinara, and just a hint of spice, it’s an easy dish that feels special.

A white baking dish filled with one layered baked tortellini pasta covered in a red tomato meat sauce, topped with melted white cheese spread evenly across the dish and sprinkled with green chopped herbs, with some browned crispy spots on the cheese and sauce edges. The dish sits on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: 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.
Step 2: 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. Drain well and set aside.
Step 3: 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.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Drizzle with olive oil.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 15 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles. For a golden top, broil for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Step 6: Let the dish sit for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh tortellini when possible for a tender texture, but frozen works just as well if adjusted slightly.
Add cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.
For a creamier dish, stir in 1/4 cup ricotta before baking.
Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit entirely for a milder dish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To prevent drying, cover with foil if reheating in the oven.

How to Serve

A round black cast iron pan is filled with a baked dish that has about three layers. The bottom layer is deep red tomato sauce spread evenly, covering the whole pan. On top of the sauce, there are stuffed pasta pieces that look golden yellow and soft, with some edges curled inside the sauce. The top layer is a thick spread of melted, slightly browned mozzarella cheese, which covers most of the pasta and sauce, with melted cheese bubbles and light brown spots. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered on top, adding contrast to the reds and whites. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with small bowls of fresh spinach and another small plate partially visible near the top edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini without thawing?

Yes, you can cook frozen tortellini directly in boiling water and follow the recipe as instructed. Just be sure to drain well before mixing with the sauce.

What can I substitute for marinara sauce?

You can use homemade tomato sauce, arrabbiata sauce for extra spice, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different flavor twist.