If you’re looking for a comforting dinner dish that effortlessly blends savory flavors with cheesy goodness, look no further than the delicious and hearty Tortellini and Sausage Bake. This beloved recipe merges the classic ingredients of Italian cooking into a true weeknight hero, perfect for impressing family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Peasy: This recipe brings elegance to your table with minimal effort, and it requires only one skillet for cooking and baking!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with layers of flavor, it’s an instant favorite among kids and adults alike.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sausage, ricotta, and marinara sauce delivers a taste that’s both rich and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish brings together simple ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating a symphony of flavors. The secret lies in fresh, quality ingredients which make the Tortellini and Sausage Bake truly shine.
- 16 oz full-fat ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, silky texture that melds beautifully with the sauce.
- ¾ lb Italian pork sausage: Provides a savory and slightly spicy base, enhancing the dish’s overall richness.
- 24 oz marinara sauce: A robust and tangy backdrop that ties all elements together with its seasoned tomato goodness.
- Refrigerated tortellini: The tender pockets of pasta deliver heartiness and substance, elevating this bake to a filling main course.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty finish that crisps to perfection under the broiler.
Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on the Tortellini and Sausage Bake. This recipe is incredibly adaptable to suit personal tastes, dietary needs, or the ingredients at hand.
- Meat Alternatives: Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey, beef, or even a vegetarian option like crumbled tofu for a healthy twist.
- Pasta Options: Outside of refrigerated tortellini, feel free to experiment with frozen versions or even ravioli for a new texture profile.
How to Make Tortellini and Sausage Bake
Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper until smooth. This mixture will lend a magical, creamy top to your bake, sealing in all the delicious flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
Heat cooking oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Once halfway done, add chopped onion, cooking until translucent, and then stir in the minced garlic for a fragrant touch.
Pro Tips for Making Tortellini and Sausage Bake
- Perfect Broil: Keep a close eye on the bake during broiling. The cheese topping should be golden brown, not burnt.
- Marinara Magic: Shake your marinara jar with some broth or water to get every last bit of sauce, adding extra flavor.
- Spice It Up: Try using hot Italian sausage for a spicy kick that can add some zing to each bite.
- Choose Your Cheese: Top with fresh mozzarella if you want a melty, oozy finish that’s irresistibly gooey.
How to Serve Tortellini and Sausage Bake
Garnishes
Freshly torn basil or a sprinkle of parsley makes a vibrant, aromatic garnish that beautifully complements the bold flavors of the dish.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs perfectly with a crisp, green salad or a garlic-infused focaccia bread, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich main course.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, consider serving in individually portioned ramekins, allowing each guest to enjoy a baked mini-version that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, cover and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to three days. This dish tastes just as wonderful upon reheating, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld.
Freezing
Freeze portions in a tightly sealed container for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results, then reheat as needed.
Reheating
Warm up the bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option, ensuring it doesn’t dry out by covering it with a damp paper towel.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of cheese in the Tortellini and Sausage Bake?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ricotta with cottage cheese, or add mozzarella for a stretchier, gooier topping.
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What if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some broth or water until you reach the desired consistency. It should lightly coat the back of a spoon.
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Is it okay to use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly! Just ensure you bake them covered initially before broiling for an even cook.
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What’s the best way to adjust spice levels?
Adjust the spice by choosing hot or sweet Italian sausage, and tweak your use of black pepper or even red pepper flakes to taste.
Final Thoughts
This Tortellini and Sausage Bake is a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, favored for its delectable layers of flavor and simple assembly. I warmly invite you to bring this comforting recipe into your home and savor the satisfaction it brings to the dining table. Happy cooking!
Print
Tortellini and Sausage Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Italian American
Description
A hearty and creamy tortellini and sausage bake that combines savory Italian sausage with rich ricotta cheese and marinara sauce, then broiled to perfection with a golden cheese topping. Perfect for a comfort-food dinner that is easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Ricotta Mixture
- 16 oz full-fat ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Main Dish
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 3/4 lb Italian pork sausage (about 3-4 links)
- 1/2 onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup water or broth
- 16–20 oz refrigerated tortellini (spinach or your choice)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook Sausage and Vegetables: Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage, crumble, and cook until browned. When halfway cooked, add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Make Sauce: Pour marinara sauce into the skillet, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Shake water or broth into the marinara jar, swirl to get all sauce, and pour into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Preheat Broiler: Turn on the oven’s broil setting to prepare for finishing.
- Combine and Top: Turn off heat, check seasoning, then stir in cooked tortellini. Spread ricotta mixture evenly over the top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Broil: Place the skillet under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully until the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let cool for a couple of minutes, then serve. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Sausage options include hot or sweet pork sausage. Remove casings if links are used.
- If using a casserole dish instead of a skillet, assemble ingredients and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, then broil for 3-5 minutes.
- Substitute sausage with ground pork, beef, turkey, or chicken. For a vegetarian option, Crumbled tofu works well.
- Frozen tortellini can be used; bake covered at 350°F for 15-20 minutes before broiling.
- For shelf-stable tortellini, par-cook in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes less than package instructions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 510 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 1093 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
