This Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole is a cheesy, creamy dish that’s sure to impress! With layers of tortellini, cheese, and a rich sauce, it’s comfort food at its best.
This casserole is my go-to for gatherings because it’s easy to make and tastes amazing! Plus, who can say no to that gooey cheese? Just grab a fork and dig in! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I recommend using refrigerated cheese tortellini for the best texture and flavor. If you can’t find cheese tortellini, you can use fresh or frozen spinach tortellini, or even a different pasta shape like rotini or penne.
Ground Italian Sausage: This adds a delicious flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat.
Ricotta Cheese: For a lighter option, you can substitute part-skim ricotta. If you have a dairy allergy, try a plant-based ricotta or make your own using blended silken tofu with nutritional yeast.
Marinara Sauce: You can use homemade marinara if you have some handy! Otherwise, store-bought works great. Just make sure it’s a flavor you love, as it enhances the dish.
How Do I Avoid Overcooking the Tortellini?
Cooking the tortellini just right is crucial for this casserole. You want them to be al dente, so they hold up during baking. Here’s how:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, then add the tortellini.
- Cook according to the package, usually around 3-5 minutes.
- Taste one to check if it’s cooked but still firm. Drain them quickly to stop the cooking process.
Remember, they’ll cook a bit more in the oven, so it’s better to undercook them slightly!
Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake. So, in about 40 minutes, you’ll have a fantastic meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so your casserole won’t stick.
2. Prepare the Tortellini:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions until they are al dente—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once done, drain the tortellini and set them aside.
3. Cook the Sausage and Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, add the ground Italian sausage. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Add Garlic and Sauces:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Next, add the drained diced tomatoes and marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Give it a taste and add salt and pepper as needed!
5. Mix in the Cheesy Goodness:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the chopped fresh basil until everything is fully combined and creamy.
6. Combine with Tortellini:
Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the sauce mixture. Make sure every piece of tortellini is coated with that delicious cheesy sauce.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top it off by sprinkling the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over everything.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly! Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s baked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Before serving, add some extra fresh basil on top for a lovely garnish.
Enjoy your hot and cheesy Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole! It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! Just cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions, as they may require a little longer compared to refrigerated. Drain and proceed with the recipe as usual.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
Can I Prepare the Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before popping it in the oven.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
