This Easy 20-Minute Baked Tortellini checks all the boxes — it’s quick, requires minimal ingredients, and bursts with comforting flavors.
With cheese-filled tortellini, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella, this dish satisfies cravings without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.
Whether you need a cozy dinner after a long day or a crowd-pleaser for a casual gathering, this baked tortellini delivers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep work.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, and adults enjoy the hearty flavors.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples that won’t break the bank.
- Customizable: Easily add veggies or protein to make it your own.
- Minimal Clean-Up: Baked in one dish for easy serving and cleaning.
Ingredients
This recipe calls for basic ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen.
- 1 (20-ounce) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook for 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, undercooking prevents mushiness. Drain well and set aside.
Step 3: Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Pour the saucy tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Drizzle with a little olive oil for extra richness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes or until the cheese melts and starts to bubble. For a golden, crispy top, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Customization Ideas
This baked tortellini is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to switch it up:
- Add Vegetables: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
- Boost the Protein: Mix in plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu for added texture and protein.
- Creamy Twist: Replace half the marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy tomato flavor.
- Extra Crunch: Top with breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This baked tortellini pairs beautifully with:
- A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or homemade focaccia
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts
- A glass of red wine for a cozy dinner experience
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Final Thoughts
This Easy 20-Minute Baked Tortellini is the ultimate comfort food that delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a last-minute dinner, this dish never disappoints. Try it once, and it will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation!
