Italian Sausage Tortellini Bake
A comforting and satisfying Italian dish featuring tortellini, Italian sausage, and a creamy marinara sauce topped with melted cheese.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage Use mild or spicy, depending on your preference. Remove casing for crumbles.
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced Elevates the flavor and aroma.
- 1 small onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce Choose a quality brand or homemade for the best flavor.
- 12 ounces fresh tortellini Go for cheese-filled tortellini for a rich, comforting feel.
- 1 cup heavy cream Provides a luscious, creamy texture.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese A must for that melty topping.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a nutty, savory touch.
- to taste Fresh basil or parsley Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until the onions are translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Let the sauce bubble slightly until it thickens.
- Add the fresh tortellini and mix until well coated in the sauce, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes and garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
For added nutritional value, consider including spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Feel free to swap out cheeses based on your preference.