Baked Tortellini Casserole
A creamy and cheesy casserole featuring tender tortellini, savory sausage, and fresh spinach, topped with gooey mozzarella for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds flavor and helps sauté ingredients evenly.
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage Provides a rich, savory flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced Adds sweetness and aroma.
- 1 medium carrot, diced Brings natural sweetness and slight crunch.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Infuses robust flavor.
- 24 ounces Marinara sauce Tangy base that binds the dish.
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped Adds nutrition and color.
- 1 cup water or broth Creates a sauce for melding flavors.
- 20 ounces fresh cheese tortellini Main carbohydrate element.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided Melts beautifully for the topping.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, shredded Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper Essential for flavor balancing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Drizzle olive oil into a large oven-safe skillet and heat over medium-high.
- Add Italian sausage, onion, carrot, and garlic. Cook until veggies are tender and sausage is browned.
Cooking
- Pour in the marinara sauce, water (or broth), and spinach. Cook until spinach is slightly wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add tortellini and 1.5 cups of mozzarella and mix to combine. Turn off the heat.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the pan and top with remaining mozzarella.
- Cover with a lid or foil and bake for about 40 minutes until cheese is melty and golden brown.
- Broil uncovered for 1-2 minutes, if desired, to brown the cheese.
- Let the dish rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Let the sausage brown completely for deeper flavor. You can substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option. Use gluten-free tortellini to accommodate dietary restrictions.