Baked Tortellini with Sausage
Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Meals
Baked Tortellini with Sausage is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with tender tortellini, all baked to perfection in a creamy sauce.
This Baked Tortellini with Sausage recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings. The combination of cheesy tortellini and savory sausage makes it a crowd-pleaser!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying dish for the whole family
- Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
A Comforting Family Favorite
Baked Tortellini with Sausage is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. The combination of tender cheese tortellini and savory Italian sausage creates a dish that is both filling and satisfying. Each bite offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to enhance its nutritional value. The creamy sauce enveloping the tortellini makes it a delightful experience, and the melted cheese on top adds an irresistible golden crust.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best aspects of Baked Tortellini with Sausage is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can whip up a hearty meal that impresses. The entire dish comes together in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
Even those new to cooking will find this recipe approachable. The steps are straightforward, and there’s no need for advanced culinary skills. Just cook the sausage, mix in the sauce, combine with tortellini, and bake. It’s as easy as that!
Perfect for Meal Prep
Baked Tortellini with Sausage is an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts. You can prepare a large batch and store individual portions in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week. Reheating is a breeze—just pop it in the oven or microwave, and you’ll have a homemade meal ready in minutes.
This dish also tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. It's a win-win for busy families or anyone looking to save time in the kitchen without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Baked Tortellini
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Gather all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Prepare the Sauce
Add marinara sauce and heavy cream to the skillet with the sausage. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Combine Tortellini and Sauce
Add the cheese tortellini to the sauce mixture, stirring gently until well coated.
Bake
Transfer the tortellini mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious Baked Tortellini with Sausage!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store leftover Baked Tortellini with Sausage, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, ensure that it is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the cheese's gooey texture. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This ensures you enjoy the same delightful flavors as when it was freshly made.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Tortellini with Sausage pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast.
For a more indulgent experience, consider serving it alongside a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, which enhances the Italian flavors. This meal is sure to impress whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package before adding them to the sauce.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.
→ What other types of cheese can I use?
You can substitute cheddar, gouda, or any cheese you prefer. Just ensure it melts well.
→ Is it possible to make it vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether for a vegetarian dish.
Baked Tortellini with Sausage
Baked Tortellini with Sausage is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with tender tortellini, all baked to perfection in a creamy sauce.
Created by: Ethan
Recipe Type: Easy Everyday Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Baked Tortellini
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add marinara sauce and heavy cream to the skillet with the sausage. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add the cheese tortellini to the sauce mixture, stirring gently until well coated.
Transfer the tortellini mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 20g