Cheesy Tortellini & Sausage Bake
Description
A comforting, hearty dish that combines tender cheese-filled tortellini with savory Italian sausage, all baked in a creamy tomato-cheese sauce. Golden, bubbly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this bake is rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Bonus: it’s easy to customize with veggies or different cheeses!
Prep & Cook Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 25–30 minutes
Total: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
1 lb (450 g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1½ cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add onion and cook until translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Prepare Sauce
Stir in diced tomatoes, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Tortellini & Sausage
Cook tortellini according to package instructions (usually 3–5 minutes for fresh, 7–9 minutes for frozen). Drain and combine in the sauce with the cooked sausage. Mix well.
Assemble Bake
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Garnish & Serve
Remove from oven, let sit 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the bake in the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes if cold from the fridge.
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Absolutely! Cheese ravioli, gnocchi, or even penne can be substituted. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Q: How can I make it vegetarian?
A: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or plant-based sausage.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, assemble without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 550 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 950 mg