Description

This creamy and cheesy Alfredo Tortellini Bake is an easy and comforting pasta casserole that combines tender cheese tortellini with a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, topped with bubbly mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or family gathering, this baked pasta dish is flavorful, satisfying, and simple to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta Base

1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 tbsp olive oil

Alfredo Sauce

2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste

Topping

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Cook Tortellini: Boil the cheese tortellini in salted water according to package instructions, but cook it 1 to 2 minutes less than al dente to avoid overcooking during baking. Drain the tortellini and toss with olive oil to keep the pasta from sticking together.
Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter then add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant, careful not to brown it.
Make Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens enough to coat a spoon.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini to the Alfredo sauce and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated evenly with the creamy sauce.
Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the sauced tortellini into the prepared baking dish and spread out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta evenly to create a bubbly cheesy crust during baking.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm for a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

For added protein and flavor, consider mixing in cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or fresh spinach along with the tortellini before baking.
Do not overcook the tortellini in the boiling water since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Alfredo Tortellini Bake, baked pasta, creamy Alfredo sauce, cheese tortellini casserole, comfort food, easy dinner recipe