This Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its rich combination of flavors and textures, it brings the warm and hearty essence of Italian cuisine right to your dining table. You’ll find it easy to make while still being impressive enough to share with friends or serve at any occasion. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a favorite.
Why We Love This Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake Recipe
You might feel an instant connection with this dish because it ticks all the boxes of what makes a meal enjoyable. It’s simple yet flavorful, combining juicy Italian sausage with tender tortellini and a thick, savory sauce. Not to mention, the gooey, melted mozzarella on top adds a special touch, creating that delightful golden crust that everyone loves. Whether it’s a chilly night or a busy weekday, this tortellini bake is a one-pan wonder that makes dinnertime a breeze. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find, making this a go-to recipe in your meal rotation.
Ingredients about Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake
To create this delicious Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake, gather the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (14 ounce) can Italian-style diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 (9 ounce) package frozen cheese-filled tortellini
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Make Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake Directions
Making the Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake is simple and can be broken down into a few easy-to-follow steps. Begin by heating a large saucepan over medium heat. Crumble the bulk Italian sausage into the pan, allowing it to cook thoroughly. Stir in the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until the sausage is completely browned, which typically takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep your dish light and enjoyable.
Next, add the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes into the sausage mixture. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and give it a good stir. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 30 to 45 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and blend beautifully with the sauce.
While the sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Get a large pot of lightly salted water boiling on the stovetop. Once boiling, cook the frozen cheese-filled tortellini in the boiling water until they float to the top, which usually takes around 6 to 7 minutes. Drain the tortellini and set them aside.
Now, it’s time to combine the flavors! Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the simmering sausage sauce. Allow it to cook together for another 5 minutes. After that, transfer the tortellini and sauce mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top it off with shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even layer for that cheesy finish.
Finally, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly. Once your Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake is ready, you’ll be greeted with a delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious meal.
How to Serve Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake
Serving your Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake is straightforward and can be tailored to your liking. After removing the baking dish from the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This slight cooling period makes it easier to serve and allows the flavors to set. You can use a large spoon or spatula to scoop out portions and plate them.
For a beautiful presentation, consider garnishing each serving with freshly chopped basil or parsley, adding a vibrant color contrast and a fresh touch. This tortellini bake pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables, making your meal nutritious and balanced. Breadsticks or garlic bread can also complement the dish beautifully, allowing everyone to soak up the delicious sauce left on the plate.
Expert Tips: Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake
As you embark on making this Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake, consider these expert tips to elevate your dish. First, feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Adding ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can enhance the flavor profile and nutrition of the bake.
Using quality marinara sauce is vital too; it can really make a difference in the overall taste. If time allows, you could even make your own marinara sauce for an added personal touch.
Make sure to keep an eye on the baking time toward the end. Every oven is different, and you don’t want to overbake the cheese, which can lead to a hard crust instead of a beautifully melted topping.
Lastly, this dish is an excellent candidate for meal prep! You can prepare the sausage mixture and tortellini in advance, storing them separately until you’re ready to bake them. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you’re putting in cold ingredients.
How to Store Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake
If you find yourself with leftovers – which is unlikely, considering how delicious it is! – storing your Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake is easy. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to store it for a more extended period, you can freeze it. For freezing, it’s best to portion out individual servings in separate containers or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This way, you can defrost only what you need later. The tortellini bake will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Variation of Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake
While the classic Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake is already a crowd-pleaser, there are several fun variations you can try. If you prefer a lighter version, swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken sausage. This will offer a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
For a creamier twist, consider adding a layer of ricotta cheese or cream cheese between the tortellini and mozzarella. This adjustment gives the dish an indulgent texture and flavor profile.
Vegetarian options are also available! You can use a mix of mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers to replace the sausage, providing a hearty, flavorful option without meat. Lastly, experimenting with different kinds of cheese can lead you to explore new flavor combinations—think cheddar, provolone, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan.
FAQ
What is in the Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake?
The Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake features bulk Italian sausage, onion, green bell pepper, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, frozen cheese tortellini, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
How long does it take to make Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake?
From start to finish, including preparation and baking time, this dish typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to make.
Can you freeze Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake?
Yes! You can freeze the tortellini bake for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container or properly wrap it for freezing.
What can I serve with Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake?
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the Italian sausage with your favorite combination of vegetables like mushrooms and spinach for a delicious vegetarian option.
By following this guide, you’re now equipped to create a mouthwatering Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake that your family and friends will adore. Enjoy the cooking journey!
Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound bulk Italian sausage Choose a quality sausage for the best flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Yellow or white onion works well.
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped Can substitute with any color bell pepper.
- 24 ounces jar marinara sauce Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara.
- 14 ounces can Italian-style diced tomatoes No salt added options can be used.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger flavor.
- 9 ounces package frozen cheese-filled tortellini Cook according to package directions.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese For a different flavor, try using Italian blend cheese.
Instructions
Cooking the Sausage
- Heat a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Crumble the bulk Italian sausage into the pan and cook until thoroughly browned, approximately 7 to 10 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
- Drain any excess grease from the pan.
Making the Sauce
- Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and garlic powder.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Let it simmer for about 30 to 45 minutes.
Cooking the Tortellini
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of lightly salted water, bring to a boil.
- Cook the frozen tortellini until they float (approximately 6 to 7 minutes), then drain.
Combining and Baking
- Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the simmering sausage sauce for another 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!