Baked Tortellini with Sausage

Name: Baked Tortellini with Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini, uncooked; 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in a comforting dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings alike. Baked Tortellini with Sausage combines tender pasta with savory sausage in a rich tomato sauce.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:13:44.807Z

Baked Tortellini with Sausage is a family favorite that brings the warmth of Italian cooking to your table. This dish is not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for the whole family
Rich flavors of sausage and cheese meld beautifully with the tortellini
Quick prep time makes it a great option for busy weeknights

      

A Comforting Family Favorite

Baked Tortellini with Sausage is more than just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a plate. This dish combines the delightful textures of tender cheese tortellini with the robust flavors of Italian sausage, creating a satisfying experience that the entire family will love. Whether you're feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together quickly, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones. The simplicity of cooking sausage and combining it with marinara sauce and tortellini means that you can whip this up in no time, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when every minute counts.

Versatile and Delicious

One of the best aspects of Baked Tortellini with Sausage is its versatility. You can easily customize this dish to suit your family's tastes. Swap out the Italian sausage for turkey sausage or choose a vegetarian option with roasted vegetables. You can also add extra ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor profile and nutritional value.

This recipe is also great for leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in the refrigerator, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go for lunch or dinner the next day. Just reheat in the oven or microwave, and enjoy the same comforting taste without the effort of cooking from scratch.

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing Baked Tortellini with Sausage with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the baked dish, providing a balanced meal. Garlic bread is another excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce on your plate.

For a delightful finish, serve a light dessert such as sorbet or a fruit salad. These options cleanse the palate after a hearty meal, leaving your guests satisfied without feeling overly stuffed. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, these pairings will make your meal truly memorable.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 oz cheese tortellini, uncooked
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the skillet with the cooked sausage. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Tortellini

Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and add it to the sausage mixture, stirring to combine.

Bake the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the tortellini mixture to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Baked Tortellini with Sausage turns out perfectly, make sure to cook the sausage thoroughly until it’s browned. This step not only adds flavor but also ensures food safety. Additionally, don’t skip the simmering step with the marinara sauce; it helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

For a creamy twist, consider adding a dollop of ricotta cheese mixed into the tortellini before baking. This addition creates a rich, luscious texture that complements the dish. Experimenting with different cheeses can also yield delicious results, so feel free to mix it up!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, it’s recommended to reheat the dish in the oven rather than the microwave. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked tortellini. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for optimal results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! You can substitute sausage with a plant-based alternative or use mushrooms for added texture.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just assemble the dish and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to serve.

→ What sides go well with baked tortellini?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with baked tortellini.