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Cheesy Tortellini and Sausage Bake Recipe


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3.8 from 127 reviews

  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Cheesy Tortellini and Sausage Bake is a comforting and hearty Italian-inspired dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender cheese tortellini are cooked and mixed with savory browned Italian sausage, sautéed onions, and a rich tomato sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden, this casserole-style bake delivers flavorful layers in every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it serves 4 and makes a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 package (9 oz.) cheese tortellini

Meat & Vegetables

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 lb. Italian sausage
  • 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped

Sauce & Herbs

  • 3 cups (24 oz.) tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)

Cheese

  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for baking the casserole later.
  2. Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain using a colander and set aside.
  3. Brown Sausage: While the tortellini cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast-iron or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes until hot and shimmering. Add the Italian sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula until nicely browned.
  4. Sauté Onions: Add the finely chopped onions to the skillet with the sausage and sauté until tender, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to combine the flavors.
  5. Simmer Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, then stir in the fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Combine Tortellini & Sauce: Add the drained tortellini into the skillet and stir thoroughly to coat all the pasta in the flavorful sauce.
  7. Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the tortellini mixture.
  8. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and has turned golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish & Serve: Garnish the dish with extra chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving to add fresh flavor and a beautiful finish.

Notes

  • You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
  • Use an oven-safe skillet to avoid transferring the mixture to a separate baking dish.
  • Fresh parsley adds brightness but dried parsley can be used if unavailable.
  • For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and sausage.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian