Baked Tortellini with Sausage

Name: Baked Tortellini with Sausage
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Recipes

Enjoy a comforting and hearty meal with this Baked Tortellini with Sausage recipe, perfect for any night of the week.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T17:38:02.944Z

This Baked Tortellini with Sausage dish combines tender pasta with savory sausage and a rich tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese for a delightful finish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for a family dinner
Bursting with flavors from the sausage and cheese
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables

      

Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

Baked Tortellini with Sausage is the ultimate comfort food, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The combination of cheese-filled tortellini and savory Italian sausage creates a delightful meal that can be prepared in just over 30 minutes, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones.

The simplicity of this recipe is one of its greatest strengths. You can easily whip it up after a long day, and the cooking process requires minimal hands-on time. Just cook the sausage, boil the tortellini, mix everything together, and pop it in the oven. It's a straightforward method that ensures a delicious dinner with less hassle.

Flavorful and Satisfying

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the Italian sausage, which adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire meal. As it cooks, the sausage releases its rich spices, infusing the marinara sauce and tortellini with a robust taste that is truly irresistible. Combined with the gooey mozzarella and nutty Parmesan, every bite is a explosion of savory goodness that will leave you craving more.

Additionally, the use of garlic powder and Italian seasoning enhances the overall flavor profile, making this baked dish not only tasty but also aromatic. Each ingredient works harmoniously together, creating a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet satisfying.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this Baked Tortellini with Sausage recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your personal tastes or dietary needs. For instance, feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to the mix. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds more layers of flavor and texture to the dish.

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken sausage. This simple swap keeps the dish healthy while still delivering on taste. Additionally, consider using whole wheat tortellini or gluten-free varieties to accommodate different dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 oz cheese tortellini
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Tortellini

While the sausage is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Combine Ingredients

Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Assemble the Dish

In a large baking dish, combine the cooked tortellini and sausage mixture. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Tortellini with Sausage pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The crispiness of a side salad helps to balance the richness of the baked dish, while garlic bread provides a delicious way to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate. For a touch of elegance, serve with a glass of red wine to enhance the flavors.

Feel free to garnish your dish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the overall presentation. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also introduce a nice kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry! Baked Tortellini with Sausage stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.

For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to bake it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes it an ideal meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute with chicken sausage or any other preferred type.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use plant-based sausage and a marinara sauce without meat.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it. Just bake when you're ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.