Tortellini and Sausage Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite
Introduction
There’s something profoundly comforting about coming home to the inviting scent of a bubbling Tortellini and Sausage Casserole cooking in the oven. As I step through the door, the rich aroma of Italian sausage mingles with the nutty scent of cooked tortellini, creating a warm embrace that feels like a hug from an old friend. This dish has been a staple in my family cooking for years, filling our home with laughter and love, and now I want to share it with you. With each bite, you’ll not only experience a delightful blend of savory flavors but also the joy of togetherness that comes from sharing a simple dinner with loved ones.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you add Tortellini and Sausage Casserole to your weeknight menu? Let me count the ways:
- Quick Prep: This recipe comes together in a flash, making it easy for busy evenings.
- Cozy Flavors: The combination of sausage, cheese, and herbs creates a warm, comforting dish that can melt away your worries.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a guaranteed hit for family dinners and gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand – fresh vegetables or different proteins can easily be added.
- Make-Ahead Option: This casserole is perfect for prepping in advance, allowing you to savor it on those particularly hectic days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Tortellini: About 12 ounces of cheese tortellini – the star of the dish! Feel free to use fresh or frozen.
- Italian Sausage: One pound of sweet or spicy Italian sausage will provide a rich, flavorful base. You can also use turkey sausage for a healthier twist.
- Marinara Sauce: A jar of your favorite marinara (about 24 ounces) will coat the tortellini beautifully. For a homemade touch, use a simple tomato sauce flavored with garlic and basil.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Two cups of shredded mozzarella for that gooey, cheesy topping. Substitute with Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: About half a cup, grated, to sprinkle on top for that extra umami kick.
- Onion and Garlic: One medium onion and three cloves of garlic to enhance the flavor profile.
- Spinach or Kale (optional): A couple of handfuls for added nutrition and a pop of color.
- Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper: Essential pantry staples for a finishing touch.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
This easy meal is worth every moment, providing you with a hearty and satisfying dish that feels like it took all day to prepare—without the hassle!
How to Make Tortellini and Sausage Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, heat a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Crumble the Italian sausage into the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. As the sausage sizzles, let the savory aroma fill your kitchen.
- Add the onions and garlic: Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent, approximately another 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in marinara sauce: Stir in the marinara until well combined, letting it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine tortellini: Gently fold in the cheese tortellini and spinach or kale, if using, ensuring everything is coated in that luscious sauce.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top it off: Generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan on top—can you smell that cheese melting already?
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips and Creative Variations
- Add Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Spice it Up: Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you enjoy a little heat.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like ricotta or gouda for a unique twist.
- Herbs: Add fresh basil or parsley to elevate the flavor profile.
Serving Ideas
Picture this: It’s a crisp evening, and you’ve just pulled your Tortellini and Sausage Casserole out of the oven. The melted cheese glistens invitingly, while the flavors meld beautifully. Serve it alongside a fresh, green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, and some crusty garlic bread for dipping. Pair it with a light red wine, and your dining table becomes a lovely gathering spot for joyful conversation and laughter—just like at home.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover Tortellini and Sausage Casserole? Yes, please! Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use different pasta types: While tortellini steals the show, feel free to experiment with penne or rigatoni for a heartier texture.
- Cook tortellini partially: For a firmer pasta texture, cook the tortellini in boiling water for just 2-3 minutes before adding it to the casserole.
- Mix flavors ahead: Consider assembling everything in the dish, covering with foil, and letting it sit in the fridge overnight for even deeper flavors—just increase the baking time slightly!
- Season to taste: Make sure to taste and season as you go for the best flavor.
FAQs
- Can I freeze this recipe? Yes! Bake and cool completely before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in the oven.
- What’s the best substitute for marinara sauce? If you don’t have marinara, any tomato-based pasta sauce will work, or even a homemade tomato sauce with appropriate seasonings.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Skip the sausage and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for added heartiness.
Conclusion
As I sit here reminiscing about cozy family dinners filled with laughter and love, I can’t help but urge you to whip up your own Tortellini and Sausage Casserole. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to create memories in your kitchen, to share delightful moments with those dearest to you. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this comforting recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Don’t forget to share it with friends—you never know when you might inspire someone else to create their own flavorful memories!
Contents
Tortellini and Sausage Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini Fresh or frozen
- 1 pound Italian sausage Sweet or spicy Italian sausage; turkey sausage can be used for a healthier option
- 24 ounces marinara sauce Your favorite jar or homemade with garlic and basil
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Can substitute with Monterey Jack
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese For topping
- 1 medium onion Chopped
- 3 cloves garlic Minced
- 2 handfuls spinach or kale Optional for added nutrition
- 1 teaspoon olive oil For cooking the sausage
- to taste salt and pepper Essential pantry staples
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and crumble the Italian sausage into the skillet. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Gently fold in the cheese tortellini and spinach or kale, if using, ensuring everything is coated in the sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously on top.
Cooking
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest