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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Combine Tortellini & Sauce: Add the drained tortellini into the skillet and stir thoroughly to coat all the pasta in the flavorful sauce.
- Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the tortellini mixture.
- 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.
- 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