Cheesy Baked Tortellini is one of those rare dinners that hits the sweet spot between ultra-easy and crowd-pleasing. If your evenings are hectic and you need something fast that doesn’t require a sink full of dishes, this is your go-to. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a bubbling, cheesy meal on the table in no time.

This dish combines pre-cooked tortellini, your favorite pasta sauce, and lots of gooey melted cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food—warm, rich, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding picky little ones or adults who just need something hearty after a long day, it’s always a win.

Best of all, you can tweak it with what you have on hand. Toss in some spinach, use a different sauce, or add protein to make it your own. It’s flexible, fast, and guaranteed to become a weeknight staple.

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 450–550 calories per serving

Ingredients

• Refrigerated cheese tortellini
• Jarred marinara or pasta sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan
• Olive oil
• Fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F.
• Assemble the Dish: Toss tortellini with sauce and spread in a baking dish.
• Add Cheese: Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Bake: Cover and bake until bubbly, then uncover and broil for a golden top.
• Garnish and Serve: Let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Substitutions & Variations

• Swap Sauce: Use Alfredo or pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach or mushrooms before baking.
• Boost Protein: Add cooked sausage, ground beef, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.

What Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Foil
• Oven mitts

Storage & Reheating Guidelines

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Top Tips

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the tortellini evenly for even melting.
• Prep Ahead: Assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Taste and Adjust: Use a well-seasoned sauce or add herbs for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen tortellini?
  Yes, just boil them first according to package directions.
• Can I freeze this dish?
  It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze before baking if tightly wrapped.
• What kind of cheese works best?
  Mozzarella and Parmesan melt well, but feel free to mix in provolone or cheddar.

Related Recipes

• Tuna Pasta Bake: A classic comfort meal that’s affordable, satisfying, and easy to upgrade with frozen veg or cheese.
• Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: A cheesy pasta classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Add peas or ham to make it a full meal.

Food Safety Guidelines

• Cook to Temperature: If adding meat, ensure it’s fully cooked before baking.
• Refrigerate Promptly: Don’t leave leftovers at room temp for more than 2 hours.
• Reheat Thoroughly: Heat until steaming hot throughout before serving.