Are you looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that satisfies your cravings for comfort food? Look no further than this Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake! This delightful dish brings together tender cheese tortellini and juicy Italian sausage, all baked to perfection with a gooey layer of melted mozzarella cheese on top. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s flavorful, hearty, and just what you need to warm up on a chilly night.
The beauty of this Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake lies in its simplicity. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 35 minutes. The easy method allows you to spend more time enjoying dinner and less time in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty marinara sauce creates a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible!
This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a wonderful balance of textures thanks to the soft tortellini and melted cheese. What’s more, it’s a gluten-free option, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake
- Quick and Easy: Prepare this mouthwatering dish in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: A rich and creamy bake that satisfies your cravings for something warm and hearty.
- One-Pan Wonder: Simple clean-up with everything cooked in one skillet before baking.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the dish with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences.
- Gluten-Free: Enjoy a delicious meal that caters to gluten-sensitive diets without compromising on flavor.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start cooking your Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake, it’s essential to ensure that your kitchen is ready. First, gather your ingredients and tools to make the process seamless. You will need a large skillet, an oven-safe baking dish, a pot for boiling the tortellini, and a wooden spoon for stirring.
Make sure you’ve prepped your ingredients by washing and dicing the yellow onion. Defrost the cheese tortellini if it’s frozen, so it’s ready to cook. If you want to add some personal flair to your meal, feel free to gather any additional spices or herbs you might want to include. Once everything is handy, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking.
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
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, carefully add the cheese tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, which typically take about 3–4 minutes. Once cooked, gently drain the tortellini and set it aside; it will absorb the flavors of the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Onions
In your large skillet, heat over medium-high. Add the Italian sausage and diced yellow onion. As the sausage cooks, break it up with a wooden spoon to ensure even browning. Cook until the sausage is thoroughly browned and the onions become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The flavors will meld perfectly as the sausage releases its savory juices.
Step 3: Flavor the Mixture
Once the sausage and onions are cooked, add the minced garlic into the skillet. Stir the mixture and allow the garlic to infuse its aroma for about 30–45 seconds — just enough time to avoid burning. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to elevate the flavor profile.
Step 4: Combine with Sauce and Tortellini
Add the marinara sauce to the skillet while stirring to combine all ingredients. After that, gently fold in the cooked tortellini, making sure it is evenly covered with the sausage and sauce mixture. This step infuses the tortellini with flavors that will make every bite delightful.
Step 5: Bake and Melt
Carefully transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Level it out, and generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese across the top. Bake in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbling. This final step creates a golden, cheesy crust that adds an irresistible texture.
Variations
- Protein: Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even spicy sausage for a kick!
- Vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spices: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes for heat or switch out the marinara for pesto for a unique twist.
Cooking Notes
- For a creamier dish, consider mixing in a small block of cream cheese with the marinara sauce.
- If gluten is not a concern, traditional tortellini can be used, but check the cooking time as it may vary from gluten-free options.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread on the side to scoop up the cheesy goodness.
- Add a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Tips
- To save time, prepare the meat and sauce mixture in advance so you can simply mix it with tortellini later.
- Taste the dish before serving; adjust the seasoning if needed based on your preference.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
- Protein: 28 grams
- Sodium: 900 milligrams
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or your favorite vegetables.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake?
Yes! Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, a little longer until heated through.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix cheeses; provolone, cheddar, or a blend can all work well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake is not just a fantastic meal for any occasion but also a delightful experience for the whole family. With its cheesy, meaty goodness and a flavorful base, it’s no wonder that this recipe is a favorite among comfort foods. Don’t hesitate to try variations and make this dish your own. Once you realize how simple and delicious this bake is, we encourage you to share it with friends and family. Are you excited to make it? Leave a comment below with your experiences or any personal twists you’ve added to the recipe!
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Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake is the perfect weeknight dinner with gooey cheese and hearty ingredients.
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
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, carefully add the cheese tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, which typically take about 3–4 minutes. Once cooked, gently drain the tortellini and set it aside; it will absorb the flavors of the sauce later.
- In your large skillet, heat over medium-high. Add the Italian sausage and diced yellow onion. As the sausage cooks, break it up with a wooden spoon to ensure even browning. Cook until the sausage is thoroughly browned and the onions become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The flavors will meld perfectly as the sausage releases its savory juices.
- Once the sausage and onions are cooked, add the minced garlic into the skillet. Stir the mixture and allow the garlic to infuse its aroma for about 30–45 seconds — just enough time to avoid burning. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to elevate the flavor profile.
- Add the marinara sauce to the skillet while stirring to combine all ingredients. After that, gently fold in the cooked tortellini, making sure it is evenly covered with the sausage and sauce mixture. This step infuses the tortellini with flavors that will make every bite delightful.
- Carefully transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Level it out, and generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese across the top. Bake in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbling. This final step creates a golden, cheesy crust that adds an irresistible texture.
Notes
For a creamier dish, consider mixing in a small block of cream cheese with the marinara sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Protein: 28 g