Description
This Alfredo Tortellini Bake is a creamy, comforting casserole featuring tender cheese tortellini tossed in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection. A perfect dish for an easy weeknight dinner or cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Base
- 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cook Tortellini: Boil salted water and cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to package instructions, but reduce cooking time by 1–2 minutes to keep them slightly firmer than al dente. Drain well and toss with olive oil to avoid sticking.
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Toss Tortellini in Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini to the Alfredo sauce in the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat every piece with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the tortellini and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the tortellini mixture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the cheese on top melts, becomes bubbly, and turns golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm for a deliciously cheesy comfort meal.
Notes
- You can add cooked chicken, bacon, or fresh spinach to the bake for additional protein and flavor.
- Use fresh parsley for garnish to add a pop of color and freshness.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but expect a less rich sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the tortellini before baking to prevent mushiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Alfredo Tortellini Bake, cheesy tortellini casserole, baked pasta, creamy Alfredo recipe, easy dinner