Easy 30-Minute Tortellini Pasta Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy 30-Minute Tortellini Pasta Bake is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights! With a cheesy, savory filling and a crispy, golden crust, it’s a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal dish for those days when you’re craving something delicious but don’t have much time to spare. You can easily prepare it ahead of time or customize it with your favorite add-ins. Plus, who doesn’t love pasta baked to perfection with melted cheese?

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) refrigerated tortellini (cheese or meat)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Tortellini: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes for refrigerated tortellini). Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Assemble the Bake: Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl with the sauce and mix gently to coat the pasta evenly. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the tortellini mixture.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley (if desired), and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Use a meatless tortellini or swap out the ricotta and Parmesan for a vegan cheese blend to make this dish vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrients.
• Meat Lovers: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or pepperoni to the sauce for a heartier version.
• Different Sauces: Swap the marinara for Alfredo sauce or pesto to switch up the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just be sure to cook it according to the package directions before baking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the bake, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re reheating it from the fridge.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or provolone for a unique twist on the classic.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy marinara sauce to give it a little kick.

Can I freeze this pasta bake?

Yes, this dish can be frozen before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes! Ground beef, sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken can be added to the sauce for extra protein and flavor.

How do I prevent the top from burning?

Cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then remove it to allow the cheese to brown and bubble without burning.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, you can use gluten-free tortellini to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Absolutely! If you have homemade marinara sauce on hand, feel free to substitute it for the store-bought version.

Can I add more cheese to the top?

Of course! You can add more mozzarella or even sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Easy 30-Minute Tortellini Pasta Bake is a versatile and quick meal that delivers all the rich flavors of comfort food without the long prep time. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving something cheesy and delicious, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, with endless variations and the ability to make it ahead of time, it’s the perfect dish to keep in your weeknight rotation. Enjoy!

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