Baked Tortellini One Pan: Easy Recipe & Delicious Results

Baked tortellini one pan – just the sound of it conjures up images of a bubbling, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal, doesn’t it? Forget slaving over multiple pots and pans; this recipe is your ticket to a delicious dinner with minimal cleanup. I’m so excited to share this incredibly easy and flavorful dish with you!

Tortellini, those delightful ring-shaped pasta pockets, have a rich history rooted in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Legend has it that they were inspired by the goddess Venus’s navel – a rather charming origin story, wouldn’t you agree? Over the centuries, tortellini have become a beloved staple in Italian cuisine, enjoyed in broths, with creamy sauces, and, of course, baked to golden perfection.

But what makes baked tortellini one pan so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of convenience and comfort. Imagine tender, cheese-filled tortellini nestled in a rich tomato sauce, blanketed with melted mozzarella, and baked until bubbly and golden brown. The creamy filling, the tangy sauce, and the gooey cheese create a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, the fact that it all comes together in a single pan makes it a weeknight winner. It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal effort, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy your meal. This baked tortellini one pan recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (25 ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (20 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparing the Sausage and Sauce:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is ready when the tortellini is assembled.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works great!) or a large, deep baking dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Make sure to crumble the sausage well so it cooks evenly and incorporates nicely into the sauce.
3. Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. The onion should become translucent and slightly sweet. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
5. Pour in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir again to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I usually add a little extra salt and pepper to bring out the flavors.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you’re using heavy cream, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of simmering. This will add a lovely richness to the sauce.

Adding the Tortellini and Cheese:

1. Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the sauce and stir gently to coat. Make sure the tortellini is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the tortellini and sauce. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella. Don’t be shy with the cheese! It’s what makes this dish so delicious.

Baking the Tortellini:

1. Cover the skillet or baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the moisture in and prevent the cheese from burning.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.
4. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.

Serving and Garnishing:

1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
2. Serve hot. This baked tortellini is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread.

Tips and Variations:

• Use different types of sausage: You can use sweet Italian sausage, spicy Italian sausage, or even chicken sausage.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
• Use different types of cheese: You can use other types of cheese, such as provolone, fontina, or ricotta.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. You can also use a vegetarian sausage substitute.
• Add a layer of ricotta cheese: Before adding the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the tortellini. This will add a creamy and delicious layer to the dish.
• Use a different type of pasta: While this recipe is specifically for tortellini, you could also use other types of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Make it ahead of time: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freeze it: This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Add some wine: For a richer flavor, add 1/2 cup of red wine to the sauce while it’s simmering. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce the alcohol.
• Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, add them to the sauce for a more vibrant flavor.
• Don’t overcook the tortellini: Be careful not to overcook the tortellini, as it can become mushy. It should be tender but still slightly firm.
• Let it rest: Letting the dish rest for a few minutes before serving allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
• Serve with garlic bread: Garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to this baked tortellini.
• Add a side salad: A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great way to balance out the richness of the dish.

Troubleshooting:

• Sauce is too thick: If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
• Sauce is too thin: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a longer period of time to allow it to reduce. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste to thicken it.
• Cheese is burning: If the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the dish with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking.
• Tortellini is sticking to the bottom of the pan: To prevent the tortellini from sticking to the bottom of the pan, make sure to grease the pan well before adding the ingredients. You can also stir the tortellini occasionally during baking.

This baked tortellini recipe is a family favorite, and I hope you enjoy it as much as we do! It’s a simple, comforting, and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This one-pan baked tortellini recipe is truly a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you just crave something comforting and delicious without the fuss. I genuinely believe this is a must-try because it combines ease of preparation with incredible flavor. Think about it: minimal cleanup, maximum taste, and a dish that’s satisfying for the whole family. What’s not to love?

Why is this baked tortellini a must-try? It’s simple: the creamy sauce, the perfectly cooked tortellini, and the bubbly, golden-brown cheese topping create a symphony of textures and flavors that will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Plus, the one-pan aspect means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. It’s a win-win!

But the beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of tortellini. Cheese-filled is a classic, of course, but spinach and ricotta, mushroom, or even meat-filled tortellini would work beautifully. You can also swap out the vegetables. Add some sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or even some roasted butternut squash for a seasonal twist.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* For a heartier meal: Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would also be a perfect complement.
* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
* Make it vegetarian: Ensure you use a vegetarian-friendly cheese and vegetable broth.
* Add protein: Cooked Italian sausage, shredded chicken, or even some crispy bacon would be fantastic additions. Just be sure to cook them beforehand and add them to the pan before baking.
* Elevate the cheese: Instead of just mozzarella, try a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for a more complex cheesy flavor.
* Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or oregano after baking for a burst of freshness.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I truly believe it will become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. It’s the perfect solution for those nights when you need a quick, easy, and satisfying meal.

So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of one-pan baked tortellini. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below. Let’s create a community of tortellini lovers! I can’t wait to see what you create. Happy cooking!