Dive into a world of comfort food with this homemade baked tortellini recipe. An enticing mix of pasta, cheese, and savory marinara sauce, it's the perfect dish to serve on any occasion. Whether you're looking to feed a hungry family, want to impress your dinner guests, or just need some comfort food, this baked tortillini hits the spot every time.
It's super simple to make, satisfyingly delicious, and sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, heat up the oven, and get ready to cook up a storm with this irresistible baked tortellini recipe.
Why This Recipe Works
Firstly, this recipe is all about simplicity and convenience without compromising on taste. It uses ingredients that are readily available in any supermarket and the preparation steps are uncomplicated, making it perfect for both novice cooks and busy individuals. Just some pre-made tortellini, a jar of your favorite marinara sauce, and cheese are all you need. And because it's baked, it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while you can sit back and relax, or prepare a side salad to complement the dish.
Secondly, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. The basic version calls for cheese tortellini and marinara sauce, but it's highly customizable according to your personal preferences. Want to incorporate more protein? Add in some cooked chicken or sausage. Looking for a vegetarian version? Opt for vegetable-stuffed tortellini and toss in some sauteed veggies. Want to make it more creamy and indulgent? Mix in some cream or a dollop of ricotta before baking. This means you can whip up this dish numerous times and yet serve something that feels new and exciting each time. What's not to love about a recipe that's delicious, easy, and adaptable to your palate?
Ingredients
Tortellini - This is the star ingredient of the dish. Tortellini are small Italian pasta dumplings that are usually stuffed with a mix of meat, cheese, or vegetables. If tortellini isn't available, you can substitute it with ravioli or any other stuffed pasta.
Marinara Sauce-A robust, rich Italian tomato sauce that provides the primary flavor base for the dish. If you don't have marinara sauce, you can use a homemade blend of stewed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs.
Cheese- Ideally, a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan is used. They melt beautifully and add creaminess to the dish. An equal amount of a shredded Italian cheese blend can also be used if mozzarella and Parmesan are not on hand.
Fresh Basil- This gives the dish a wonderful fresh and fragrant finish. If you can't find fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but the flavor won't be as vibrant.
Olive Oil- Used to sauté the tortellini and add a distinct Mediterranean flavor. If necessary, substitute it with other cooking oils, though the flavor may slightly differ.
Tips
- Ensure your oven is preheated before you start baking the tortellini. This will result in an evenly baked dish.
- You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
- Freshly grated cheese is recommended over pre-packaged shredded cheese, as it melts more smoothly and tastes fresher.
- For a bit of a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- If you're using frozen tortellini, there's no need to thaw it first. You can add it directly to the sauce.
How to Serve
Baked tortellini is a versatile dish that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It's hearty enough to be served as a Dinner, but can also make a delightful side to complement a larger meal. The cheesy, saucy baked pasta pairs well with a simple green salad, crusty bread, and a glass of your favorite wine.
- As a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad and a baguette.
- For a more formal meal, consider serving the baked tortellini with a side of grilled chicken or fish, and a rich red wine like Chianti.
- If you're hosting a party, serve the baked tortellini in individual ramekins or mini cocottes. This will make an impressive presentation, and it's easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
Similar Recipes
Baked Tortellini
Ingredients
- 1 pound tortellini
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the tortellini and sauté until they start to turn golden brown.
- Add the marinara sauce to the pan and stir to coat the tortellini.
- Transfer the tortellini and sauce into a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basilleaves just before serving. Let it cool for a few minutes, then dig in and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
- Ensure your oven is preheated before you start baking the tortellini. This will result in an evenly baked dish.
- You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
- Freshly grated cheese is recommended over pre-packaged shredded cheese, as it melts more smoothly and tastes fresher.
- For a bit of a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- If you're using frozen tortellini, there's no need to thaw it first. You can add it directly to the sauce.