Baked Tortellini with Sausage

Name: Baked Tortellini with Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes

This Baked Tortellini with Sausage recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender tortellini with savory sausage in a rich tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:30:43.862Z

This Baked Tortellini with Sausage is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Comforting and filling dish that satisfies hunger
Simple to prepare with minimal ingredients
Cheesy goodness that everyone loves
Perfect for meal prep or leftovers

      

The Comfort of Baked Dishes

Baked dishes have a unique way of bringing warmth and comfort to any meal. The aroma of ingredients melding together in the oven creates an inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or cozy nights in. This Baked Tortellini with Sausage is no exception; it's a dish that not only nourishes but also brings people together around the table.

The beauty of baked meals lies in their simplicity. With just a few core ingredients, you can create a meal that leaves everyone satisfied. This recipe takes the classic combination of cheese tortellini and Italian sausage and elevates it with a rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Baked Tortellini with Sausage is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. It can be made ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator, and reheated as needed, making it a practical option for busy weeknights. Preparing a larger batch means you'll have delicious leftovers ready to go, saving you time and effort during the week.

To ensure that your dish remains fresh and tasty, consider portioning the baked tortellini into individual servings before refrigerating. This way, you can easily grab a portion when you're in a hurry, and it will reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven, retaining its cheesy goodness and rich flavors.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage and add a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. This will not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional value of the dish.

If you're looking to add an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating spices such as red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or swapping out the marinara sauce for a pesto or Alfredo sauce. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to adapt this baked tortellini recipe to fit any occasion.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 oz cheese tortellini
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process easier and more enjoyable.

Instructions

Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.

Add Sauce and Tortellini

Add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet with the sausage. Stir in the cheese tortellini and mix until well coated.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Tortellini with Sausage with a side salad or garlic bread!

Tips for Success

To ensure that your Baked Tortellini with Sausage turns out perfectly, it's essential to cook the sausage thoroughly and drain any excess fat before adding the sauce. This step not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the dish from becoming greasy.

When combining the tortellini with the sauce, make sure that the pasta is well-coated to maximize flavor in every bite. If you find that the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty baked dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the tortellini, providing a refreshing contrast.

For a complete meal experience, consider serving this dish with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot. The wine's acidity will balance the richness of the cheese and sausage, enhancing your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage while cooking for extra heat.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with it?

Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.