Description of this recipe: This Creamy Baked Tortellini Casserole is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that transforms just a handful of ingredients into a comforting and flavorful meal. Featuring tender tortellini, rich marinara sauce, creamy cheese, and aromatic basil, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a quick and crowd-pleasing dinner. The ease of preparation and minimal ingredients make it an ideal recipe for novice cooks and experienced chefs alike.
Why you will love this recipe:
There’s so much to love about this baked tortellini casserole. First and foremost, the simplicity of the recipe is a major win. With just five main ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of creamy cheese, savory marinara, and perfectly cooked tortellini creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is sure to delight your taste buds. The dish is also incredibly versatile; you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or spices to suit your preferences. But perhaps the best part is how comforting and nostalgic this casserole is, evoking memories of cozy family dinners and warm, hearty meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at your next gathering, this creamy baked tortellini casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. It offers a delightful blend of convenience, flavor, and comfort that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 14 ounces (420g) marinara sauce, store-bought
- 17.63 ounces (500g) tortellini, frozen or fresh
- 2 tablespoons chopped basil
- 1 cup (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50g) parmesan cheese
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the Italian seasoning. Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing, resulting in a smooth and creamy mixture. The Italian seasoning adds a subtle yet essential layer of flavor, complementing the richness of the cheese and the tanginess of the marinara sauce.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole Begin by spreading approximately 3 tablespoons of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This layer will prevent the tortellini from sticking and provide a flavorful base for the casserole.
Step 4: Add the First Layer of Ingredients Add half of the tortellini in an even layer over the marinara sauce. Top with half of the cream cheese mixture, spreading it gently across the tortellini. Pour half of the marinara sauce over the cream cheese, ensuring an even distribution. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of chopped basil, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the parmesan cheese. This layering technique ensures that each bite is packed with flavor and that the cheese melts evenly throughout the casserole.
Step 5: Repeat the Layers Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortellini, cream cheese mixture, marinara sauce, basil, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. By repeating these layers, you create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the last.
Step 6: Cover and Bake Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Covering the casserole with foil during the initial baking period helps to trap moisture, ensuring that the tortellini cooks evenly and the cheese melts without browning too quickly.
Step 7: Uncover and Finish Baking Remove the aluminum foil and continue baking for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. This final baking step allows the cheese to develop a beautiful golden crust, adding a delightful visual appeal and a slightly crispy texture to the casserole.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
This Creamy Baked Tortellini Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. It’s delicious on its own as a main course, especially for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks or family gatherings, as it’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
Tips:
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use store-bought marinara sauce for convenience or homemade for a richer flavor.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- If using frozen tortellini, there’s no need to thaw them before baking.
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your preference for a cheesier or lighter casserole.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- To prevent the top from browning too quickly, keep the casserole covered with foil for the majority of the baking time.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30-35 minutes Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.) Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving Protein: 20-25g per serving Sodium: 700-900mg per serving
Conclusion:
The Creamy Baked Tortellini Casserole is a testament to the fact that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and endlessly customizable to suit your taste preferences. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious casserole that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. This recipe is not just about convenience; it’s about creating a warm, comforting, and memorable meal that brings people together.
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Question 1: Can I use homemade marinara sauce instead of store-bought? Answer: Absolutely! Homemade marinara sauce will add an even richer and more flavorful dimension to the casserole. If you have the time, using your own sauce is a great way to elevate the dish. Just ensure the sauce is well-seasoned and simmered to perfection before adding it to the casserole.
Question 2: Can I add vegetables to this casserole? If so, which ones would you recommend? Answer: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to this casserole to boost its nutritional value and flavor! Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, and onions are all excellent choices. Sauté the vegetables beforehand to soften them and remove excess moisture, then layer them into the casserole along with the other ingredients.
Question 3: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Answer: Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time, making it perfect for busy days. Assemble the casserole as instructed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
Question 4: What if I don’t have Italian seasoning? Can I substitute something else? Answer: If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can easily create your own blend using a combination of dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. Mix equal parts of each herb to create a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, you can use a general-purpose seasoning blend that contains these herbs.
Question 5: Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole? Answer: Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor of the casserole. Provolone, fontina, and Monterey Jack are all excellent alternatives to mozzarella. For a bolder flavor, try adding a sprinkle of Gruyere or Parmesan cheese. Just be sure to choose cheeses that melt well and complement the other ingredients in the dish.
