Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, easy, and packed with cheesy goodness, this Baked Tortellini Casserole is a must-try! It’s a perfect weeknight dinner, combining pillowy tortellini, creamy cheese, and rich marinara sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make—just layer, bake, and enjoy!

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy

With only 5 minutes of prep and minimal ingredients, this dish comes together effortlessly.

Rich & Creamy

The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan creates an irresistibly cheesy and creamy texture.

Family-Friendly

This dish is a crowd-pleaser—kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, saucy goodness.

Versatile & Customizable

You can add veggies, swap cheeses, or throw in some protein like sausage or chicken to make it your own.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 1 cup (225g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 14 ounces (420g) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 17.63 ounces (500g) tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons chopped basil (plus more for garnish)
• 1 cup (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) parmesan cheese

Notes on Quality

Tortellini: Fresh or frozen both work, but avoid dried tortellini unless pre-cooked.
Cheese: Use full-fat cheese for the best melt and flavor.
Marinara Sauce: A high-quality jarred sauce saves time, but homemade marinara is a great option.

Possible Substitutions

Cream cheese alternative: Ricotta or mascarpone for a different texture.
Marinara sauce: Swap for Alfredo sauce for a creamy white version.
Basil: Use dried basil if fresh isn’t available, but reduce to 1 teaspoon.
Cheese variations: Try gouda, fontina, or cheddar for a unique twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Mix the Cream Cheese

In a small bowl, stir together softened cream cheese and Italian seasoning until smooth.

Layer the Casserole

Spread 3 tablespoons of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish.
Add half of the tortellini in a single layer.
Dollop half of the cream cheese mixture over the tortellini.
Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of basil, half of the mozzarella, and half of the parmesan.
Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Bake It

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25–30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve hot.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

Soften the cream cheese to make spreading easier.
Use fresh mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
Layer evenly so every bite has a perfect balance of cheese, sauce, and pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not softening the cream cheese makes it harder to spread.
Overbaking can dry out the dish, so keep an eye on it.
Skipping the foil can cause the cheese to brown too quickly before the tortellini is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings

Pair this cheesy tortellini with a crisp side salad, like a classic Caesar or a fresh Heart-Shaped Caprese Skewers.

Presentation Ideas

Serve in a large baking dish with an extra sprinkle of parmesan and fresh basil for a pop of color.

Beverage Pairings

A glass of red wine like Chianti or a non-alcoholic option like a sparkling basil lemonade complements the dish beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating Methods

Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes! No need to thaw, but add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute ricotta, mascarpone, or even cottage cheese blended smooth.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.

Variations & Customizations

Make It Meatier

Add cooked Italian sausage, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crumbled bacon for extra protein.

Vegetarian Add-Ins

Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients.

Spice It Up

Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy arrabbiata sauce for a kick.

Seasonal Twist

For a cozy fall version, mix in roasted butternut squash and a touch of nutmeg.

More Delicious Recipes to Try

Looking for more comforting, crowd-pleasing dishes? Check out these recipes:

Valentine’s Day Stuffed Mushrooms – A delightful, bite-sized appetizer filled with cheesy goodness.
Mini Spinach and Feta Puffs – A crispy, savory pastry perfect for any gathering.

For more delicious inspiration, follow me on Pinterest: Cooking with Callie

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