This Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole is a creamy and cheesy delight that will make your taste buds sing! It’s loaded with tortellini, spinach, and a rich sauce.
Honestly, with layers of cheese and a sprinkle of herbs, it feels like a hug in a dish. I often whip this up for a quick family dinner, and everyone leaves the table happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Using refrigerated cheese tortellini is a must for that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat tortellini or gluten-free versions work well too!
Ground Italian Sausage: This is what adds lovely flavors. If you prefer a lighter option or need it to be meat-free, swap for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based sausage.
Ricotta Cheese: Adding ricotta gives an extra creaminess. If you don’t have ricotta, you can skip it or use cottage cheese as a substitute.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil adds brightness to the casserole. Dried herbs can work too, but if you have fresh on hand, definitely use those!
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for melting, but feel free to mix in cheddar for a new twist. Goat cheese can also add a unique flavor.
How Do I Cook Tortellini Without Overcooking It?
Cooking the tortellini just right is key to keeping your casserole from becoming mushy. Follow this simple guide:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the tortellini and cook per package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes.
- Taste a piece a minute before it’s done to ensure it’s al dente, firm to bite but not hard.
- Drain immediately and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Set it aside while you prepare the sauce to keep it perfect!
By taking these steps, your tortellini will hold up beautifully in the casserole, giving you the perfect bite every time!
Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
For Seasoning:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of baking time. So, you’re looking at a total of around 40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a cozy family dinner without spending all evening in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, get a 9×13-inch casserole dish and lightly grease it. This will make sure your casserole doesn’t stick!
2. Cook the Tortellini:
Next, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once done, drain them well and set aside. We want them perfectly cooked to hold up in the casserole!
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook it until it’s translucent, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it smells wonderfully fragrant!
4. Brown the Sausage:
Now, add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. If there’s excess fat, don’t forget to drain it, so your casserole doesn’t get greasy!
5. Create the Sauce:
Stir in the marinara sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, along with some salt and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes. This is where all the flavors come together!
6. Combine and Add Cheese:
Once the sauce is ready, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh parsley and the ricotta cheese if you’re using it. In your prepared casserole dish, combine the cooked tortellini with the delicious sausage tomato sauce mixture. Make sure to stir gently so everything is coated well.
7. Add the Cheesy Topping:
Now it’s time for cheese! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. This will get all melty and bubbly in the oven!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, after removing from the oven, garnish with a little extra chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch. Serve it warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole—perfect for any night of the week!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini! There’s no need to thaw them before cooking. Just boil them straight from the freezer for a minute longer than the package recommends to ensure they’re heated through and tender.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Sausage?
If you prefer a healthier option or need a meat alternative, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, try using a plant-based sausage or even sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of sauce or a bit of water if it looks dry.
