Description
Cheesy Pizza Tortellini Bake
Ingredients
1 lb ground Italian sausage
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 package (19 oz) cheese tortellini, cooked and drained
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 cup pepperoni slices
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
Add marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Combine and Layer
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, toss the cooked tortellini with the meat sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Pepperoni
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. Add pepperoni slices for a pizza-style touch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 420 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof bake. First, ensure your tortellini is cooked al dente, as it will continue to soften in the oven. While it cooks, brown the sausage in your skillet, breaking it into crumbles. After draining the grease, this is your flavor base. When you add the marinara, tomatoes, and seasonings, let the sauce simmer for the full 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. When combining the tortellini and sauce, do so gently to avoid tearing the pasta. The key to a perfect top layer is to evenly distribute the cheeses before artfully placing the pepperoni slices.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a true pizza-parlor experience, serve with garlic breadsticks or bread knots. A chilled, crisp Italian white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes an excellent beverage pairing.
How-to Summary
In summary: Brown sausage, simmer with sauce and seasonings, mix with cooked tortellini, transfer to a dish, top with cheeses and pepperoni, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the bake completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely. Ground beef, turkey, or chicken work well. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based crumbles or simply add sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
You can, but do not thaw or pre-cook it. Use it frozen and increase the bake time by 10-15 minutes, covering with foil for the first half to prevent over-browning.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
What can I use instead of marinara?
A homemade tomato sauce, a robust arrabbiata, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce can create a deliciously different flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the tortellini before baking: This leads to a mushy final texture.
- Not draining the diced tomatoes: Excess liquid can make the bake soupy.
- Skipping the sauce simmer time: This short step is crucial for depth of flavor.
- Using pre-shredded cheese containing anti-caking agents: These can prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated cheese melts best.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Pizza Tortellini Bake is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution, masterfully combining the comforting elements of pasta bake with the beloved flavors of pizza. It’s customizable, family-friendly, and consistently delivers on taste with minimal effort. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly cheesy, satisfying meal that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the delicious fusion of two classics!