Baked Tortellini with Sausage

Name: Baked Tortellini with Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes

Baked Tortellini with Sausage is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender tortellini pasta with savory sausage and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:37:44.145Z

This Baked Tortellini with Sausage recipe is a family favorite that brings everyone together. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful meal that is both comforting and satisfying.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavors from the sausage and cheese
Easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
A comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Baked Tortellini with Sausage is the epitome of comfort food, delivering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that will warm your soul. The rich, creamy sauce envelops each piece of tortellini, while the Italian sausage adds a savory depth that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply want to indulge in something delicious, this recipe checks all the boxes for a comforting meal.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it also brings a sense of nostalgia. Many families have their own variations of baked pasta dishes that have been passed down through generations. This recipe is a delightful way to create new memories while honoring cherished traditions around the dinner table.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best features of Baked Tortellini with Sausage is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your family's tastes or dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, simply replace the sausage with sautéed vegetables or a plant-based meat substitute. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or sauces to create a unique flavor profile.

This dish also allows for various serving options. Pair it with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete meal, or serve it as a hearty side dish at a potluck. The possibilities are endless, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

Baked Tortellini with Sausage is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals throughout the week. You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Simply reheat it when you're ready to serve, and you’ll have a quick and satisfying meal on hand, ideal for busy weeknights.

Leftovers are equally delightful! The flavors meld beautifully as they sit, making the dish even more delicious the next day. Just pop it in the oven to warm up, and you'll have a comforting meal that tastes just as good as it did on the first day.

Ingredients

For the Baked Tortellini

12 oz cheese tortellini
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Tortellini

In a large pot, cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Combine Ingredients

Add the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Stir to combine.

Mix with Tortellini

Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the experience of your Baked Tortellini with Sausage, consider pairing it with a crisp, green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. This will add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta dish. Additionally, a side of warm garlic bread can help scoop up any remaining sauce—a delightful accompaniment that your guests will appreciate.

For those who enjoy a little heat, adding red pepper flakes to the dish or offering them on the side can provide a welcome kick. You can also serve it with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, which complements the flavors of Italian sausage beautifully.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Baked Tortellini with Sausage later. If you plan to store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

When reheating, ensure that the dish is heated evenly throughout. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors without compromising on quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, but cooking times may vary.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

→ What can I serve with Baked Tortellini?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.