Cheesy 20-Minute Baked Tortellini Recipe
This Cheesy 20-Minute Baked Tortellini recipe combines tender cheese tortellini with a rich marinara sauce, Italian herbs, and a melty blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a quick and comforting baked pasta dish perfect for busy weeknights, featuring a crispy golden top and fresh herb garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 (20-ounce) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (or homemade)
Cheeses
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for greasing the dish)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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. Drain well and set aside, as the pasta will finish cooking in the oven.
- Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Assemble the Dish: Pour the saucy tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, then drizzle with a little olive oil for extra richness.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes until the cheese melts and begins to bubble. For a golden, crispy top, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley, then serve warm and enjoy your cheesy baked tortellini!
Notes
- Undercook the tortellini slightly when boiling to prevent mushiness after baking.
- Use fresh or frozen tortellini based on preference; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Broil carefully to achieve a crispy cheese topping without burning.
- Feel free to add cooked vegetables or protein like sausage for variation.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Keywords: baked tortellini, cheesy tortellini, quick pasta bake, Italian pasta recipe, easy dinner
