Can I use frozen tortellini?

Absolutely. Just cook as directed on the package—no need to thaw beforehand. Frozen tortellini works well and is handy to keep on hand for last-minute meals.

Can I assemble this dish in advance?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 5 extra minutes to the bake time since it will be starting cold.

What’s the best way to add more veggies?

Mix in chopped, sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers when tossing everything together. They add heartiness and balance out the rich cheese and sauce.

Which store-bought marinara sauce do you recommend?

Choose one that lists tomatoes as the first ingredient and has a clean, simple ingredients list. Rao’s, Victoria, or your local favorite all work beautifully.

Baked Tortellini Recipe

Name: Baked Tortellini Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 (16 to 20 ounce) package cheese tortellini (or any variety); 2 cups roughly chopped fresh spinach; 1/4 cup roughly chopped flat-leaf parsley; 2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano); 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought); 1 cup shredded mozzarella (fresh, packaged, or smoked; divided); 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan (divided)

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a bubbling-cheesy pasta bake, and this Baked Tortellini is bound to win a permanent spot on the weeknight dinner roster. Imagine pillowy cheese tortellini coated in tangy marinara, layered with fresh spinach and herbs, and smothered in gooey, golden cheese. Best of all? This dish comes together in 30 minutes flat, making it your ultimate solution for those nights when time is short but cravings for comfort are strong. Whether it’s a family meal or a casual dinner with friends, Baked Tortellini always delivers on coziness, flavor, and sheer convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: From prep to table in just half an hour—perfect for busy nights when you need something hearty, fast.
Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: Simple steps and basic ingredients deliver a satisfying, cheesy bake that tastes far more labor-intensive than it is.
Crowd Pleaser: It’s cheesy, saucy, and has just enough greens to balance things out—everyone at the table will want seconds.
Customizable: This recipe is endlessly adaptable to your pantry or produce drawer, so you can make it your own with very little fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cheese Tortellini: Use fresh or refrigerated for the best texture and flavor, but any variety works. The tortellini bring a creamy, rich filling to every bite.
Marinara Sauce: Homemade adds a lovely personal touch, but don’t hesitate to lean on your favorite store-bought jar for speed.
Fresh Spinach: Chopped spinach brings a mild earthiness, sneaks in some greens, and wilts perfectly as the casserole bakes.
Flat-Leaf Parsley: Adds a fresh, herby lift—don’t skip it! Roughly chop for a burst of color and flavor.
Fresh Oregano: Brings depth and a little peppery kick; dried oregano works in a pinch.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded, fresh, packaged, or even smoked—this is your melty, gooey topping and cheesy glue throughout the bake.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for a savory, slightly nutty finish on top. Don’t be shy—it adds so much character.

Tip: It’s easy to sneak in extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms if you want to bulk things up. Feeling adventurous? Try a swirl of pesto along with the marinara.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Looking to switch things up? Here’s how to give this bake your own signature twist:

Protein Boost: Add cooked Italian sausage, rotisserie chicken, or sliced meatballs for extra heartiness.
Veggie-Packed: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or kale for more texture and nutrients.
Different Tortellini: Swap cheese tortellini for spinach, mushroom, or even a meat-filled version for new flavor profiles.
Herb Switch: Try basil or thyme instead of (or alongside) oregano for a new herbal note.
Dairy-Free Option: Use your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives and check for vegan tortellini if you’re dairy-free.

How to Make Baked Tortellini

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly oil an 8-inch square or 1 ½-quart baking dish—just enough to keep the tortellini from sticking.

Step 2: Boil the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package directions. The moment they float to the top, they’re ready—don’t overcook! Drain them well to avoid a watery bake.

Step 3: Mix It Up

In a large bowl, combine the hot, drained tortellini with marinara sauce, fresh spinach, parsley, oregano, and half of each cheese (mozzarella and Parmesan). Give everything a gentle toss so the tortellini are generously coated and the greens are slightly wilted.

Step 4: Assemble

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.

Step 5: Bake and Broil

Bake for 15 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. If you love a golden, crispy cheese top, slide the dish under the broiler for another 1-2 minutes—just keep an eye on it.

Step 6: Serve

Let it cool for just a couple of minutes, then dish it up while it’s hot and bubbling. Enjoy every cheesy forkful!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.
Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Slightly undercooked is best, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
Customize the Sauces: Mix a little pesto or Alfredo into the marinara for a flavor twist.
Broiler Magic: For those who crave that crispy cheese pull, don’t skip finishing under the broiler. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Let It Rest: Waiting 5 minutes before serving helps everything set, making for cleaner slices.

How to Serve

Baked Tortellini is a star all on its own, but here’s how to elevate the meal:

Garnishes: Sprinkle with extra fresh parsley, a drizzle of good olive oil, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies. The freshness and crunch balance the creamy pasta perfectly.
Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir brings out the rich tomato and cheese flavors beautifully.
Family Style: Serve straight from the casserole for a cozy, communal feel—great for sharing and seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftovers cool to room temperature, then cover the baking dish or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and meld—sometimes it’s even tastier the next day.

Freezing

Assemble the casserole right up to the baking step, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave (add a splash of sauce or water to keep it from drying out), or in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Cover with foil for the best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Absolutely. Just cook as directed on the package—no need to thaw beforehand. Frozen tortellini works well and is handy to keep on hand for last-minute meals.
Can I assemble this dish in advance?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 5 extra minutes to the bake time since it will be starting cold.
What’s the best way to add more veggies?

Mix in chopped, sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers when tossing everything together. They add heartiness and balance out the rich cheese and sauce.
Which store-bought marinara sauce do you recommend?

Choose one that lists tomatoes as the first ingredient and has a clean, simple ingredients list. Rao’s, Victoria, or your local favorite all work beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Tortellini recipe is weeknight comfort food at its best—cheesy, satisfying, and incredibly simple. Whether you make it just as written or add your own spin, you’ll savor every flavorful bite. Gather your ingredients, get that oven preheating, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal tonight.