Go Back
A close-up of a bubbling and golden brown Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole, ready to be served.

Easy Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole

This Easy Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender cheese-filled tortellini in a rich meat sauce, topped with melted mozzarella. It's simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a satisfying and flavorful meal the whole family will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar optional
  • 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large bowl
  • Spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley. Mix well.
  6. In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce.
  7. Add the cheese tortellini on top of the sauce.
  8. Dollop the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the tortellini.
  9. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the ricotta cheese.
  10. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  12. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don't overcook the tortellini, especially if using dried. Customize the sauce with vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes. Use good quality mozzarella for the best flavor. You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.