Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also quick and easy to make? Then look no further! This baked tortellini recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. It's packed with cheesy goodness and requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for families and anyone looking for a healthy and delicious homemade meal. This easy recipe is sure to become a new family favorite, offering a delightful twist on classic pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cheese tortellini (any variety you enjoy)
- 1 (24 ounce) jar of your favorite marinara sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) container of ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures your tortellini bakes evenly and prevents sticking.
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Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. This creamy mixture will add incredible flavor and richness to your baked tortellini.
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Assemble the Dish: Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the tortellini over the sauce in a single layer. Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly over the tortellini, spreading it to cover all the pasta. Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle generously with the mozzarella cheese.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the tortellini is heated through. The baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it!
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Rest & Serve: Let the baked tortellini rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy this delicious and easy meal with your family!
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked sausage, ground beef, or chicken to the sauce before layering the tortellini.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, into the ricotta mixture or layer them between the sauce and tortellini.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a little kick.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses! Asiago, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would work wonderfully.
- Make it Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Always check individual product labels for the most accurate nutritional data.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This baked tortellini recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Its delicious flavors and ease of preparation make it an excellent addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meal options. Enjoy!