Description
This Alfredo Tortellini Bake is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish combining tender cheese tortellini with a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, baked to golden perfection with mozzarella and Parmesan toppings. It’s an easy and satisfying pasta casserole perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Base
- 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Tortellini: Boil salted water and cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to package directions, but reduce cooking time by 1–2 minutes for slightly under al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to keep tortellini from sticking.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Combine Tortellini and Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini into the Alfredo sauce and toss carefully until every piece is well coated.
- Assemble Bake: Transfer the tortellini and sauce mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm to enjoy cheesy comfort at its finest.
Notes
- For added protein and extra flavor, stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or sautéed spinach before baking.
- Use low-fat or part-skim cheeses to reduce fat content, but it may alter creaminess.
- Make sure not to overcook tortellini to avoid mushiness after baking.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Alfredo tortellini bake, cheesy tortellini casserole, baked pasta recipe, creamy Alfredo pasta, easy family dinner, comfort food
