If you’re craving a meal that’s comforting, cheesy, and bursting with Italian flavor, then the Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This dish masterfully combines tender cheese-filled tortellini with savory Italian sausage, a rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any night you want a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish starts with a handful of simple but indispensable ingredients that each play a key role. From the robust Italian sausage lending a savory depth, to the delicate cheese tortellini that’s comforting and tender, every component brings texture and flavor to the table.
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini: The star pasta packed with cheese, providing creamy pockets of goodness with every bite.
- ½ yellow onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base that enhances the savory flavors.
- 1 pound Italian sausage: Brings a robust, herby meatiness crucial for the dish’s bold character.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses a warm, fragrant punch that complements the sausage beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties the whole dish together with classic Italian flair.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every flavor.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce: Provides a bright, tangy tomato base that keeps the dish moist and vibrant.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The crowning glory that melts into a golden, stretchy topping, inviting you in for that first irresistible bite.
How to Make Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Tortellini
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Meanwhile, cook the cheese tortellini just as the package instructs, then drain and set it aside. This ensures your pasta is perfectly al dente before it’s layered with sauce and sausage.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Onion
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage along with the diced yellow onion. Cooking until the meat is no longer pink and the onions soften builds the flavorful foundation you’re looking for—rich, aromatic, and satisfying.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Seasonings
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from being too heavy. Then, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to give that classic Italian warmth and balance.
Step 4: Combine Sauce and Pasta
Pour in the marinara sauce and toss in the cooked tortellini. Give everything a gentle stir to make sure the pasta is fully coated in that luscious, tangy sauce mingled with sausage and seasoning.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your flavorful mixture into an oven-safe dish and generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella all over the top. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer that seals in all the savory goodness.
How to Serve Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like torn basil leaves or a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley add a burst of color and freshness that cut through the richness beautifully. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the flavors delightfully.
Side Dishes
This bake shines on its own but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread amps up the meal to special occasion status. A simple Caesar salad or even roasted vegetables make wonderful complements to the hearty pasta, balancing textures and tastes.
Creative Ways to Present
For family-style dinners, serve the Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake Recipe straight from the casserole dish to the table—warm and inviting. If you’re entertaining, consider portioning it into individual ramekins for a charming personal touch that delights guests and looks extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the bake to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay good for up to 3-4 days, making it a perfect dish for quick weekday lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers before baking, or freeze the fully baked dish after it cools. For best quality, consume within 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain all the delicious flavors.
Reheating
To reheat, pop portions into the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and bubbly again—usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also use a microwave for convenience, just cover loosely to keep moisture in and heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option that still brings great flavor, though the taste will be a bit lighter. Just make sure to season well to keep the dish flavorful.
Is it necessary to pre-cook the tortellini before baking?
Yes, cooking the tortellini beforehand ensures it won’t be gummy or undercooked after baking. It also allows the pasta to soak up that savory sauce perfectly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives or add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a fabulous vegetarian twist.
What cheese works best besides mozzarella?
Mozzarella is ideal for its melty texture, but you can mix in provolone, Parmesan, or even a little fontina for added depth and creaminess.
Can I assemble this dish ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
The Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake Recipe is a delicious, go-to meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate—easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests. Once you try this tasty layered bake, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved dish to share again and again. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to dive into cheesy, saucy perfection that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Print
Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and easy-to-make Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake featuring Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and marinara sauce all baked together with melted mozzarella cheese for a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dish.
- Cook Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Cook Sausage and Onion: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the Italian sausage and diced yellow onion. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink and onions are softened.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage mixture and sauté for 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet.
- Season: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Add Sauce and Tortellini: Pour in the marinara sauce and add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Stir gently to mix everything together well.
- Bake: Transfer the sausage and tortellini mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve your delicious Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can use sweet or spicy Italian sausage based on your flavor preference.
- For a lighter version, use turkey sausage and reduced-fat mozzarella cheese.
- Add chopped fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for extra freshness.
- To make ahead, prepare the skillet mixture and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
