Introduction
Baked tortellini is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and cheesy goodness, all topped with bubbling mozzarella and Parmesan. This hearty meal is perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends and is easy to prepare in one skillet. Below, you’ll find the detailed ingredients and instructions to create this mouthwatering baked tortellini.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil
1 lb. ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
2–3 carrots, chopped
2–3 stalks of celery, chopped
1 yellow onion, minced
3 large cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed
One 25-ounce jar of tomato sauce or a can of San Marzano tomatoes
10–15 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
1½ – 2 cups chicken broth
2 cups baby spinach, torn
To Go On Top:
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan
Finely chopped parsley
For Serving:
Garlic bread
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
This recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household, merging the savory flavors of Italian cuisine with the convenience of a streamlined, one-pan meal. Enjoy your baked tortellini with a side of garlic bread for a comforting dining experience!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Brown the sausage
Heat a very large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and the ground Italian sausage. Cook the sausage until it is browned evenly, stirring occasionally to ensure it cooks well.
Sauté the vegetables
Add the chopped carrots, chopped celery, minced onion, minced garlic, and crushed fennel seeds to the skillet. Sauté the mixture for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
Add the sauce and tortellini
Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet along with the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Stir in enough chicken broth to achieve a saucy consistency, mixing well. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
Add the spinach
Stir in the torn baby spinach until it wilts and integrates into the mixture.
Top with cheese and bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the dish. Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and top with finely chopped parsley. Serve warm alongside garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
Oil choice
Avocado oil and olive oil are both excellent choices for sautéing, each providing a different flavor and health benefits.
Meat variation
Feel free to use a combination of mild and spicy Italian sausage to adjust the heat level to your preference.
Vegetable substitutions
If desired, other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini can be added for additional flavor and nutrition.
Cooking time
Cooking time may vary depending on the heat of your stove and the size of your skillet. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
Cheese options
You can use different types of cheese based on your personal preference, but mozzarella pairs well with this dish.
Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Brown the Sausage
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, and cook the Italian sausage until browned for flavor and texture.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add chopped carrots, celery, minced onion, minced garlic, and crushed fennel seeds to the skillet. Sauté for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
Add Sauce and Tortellini
Combine the tomato sauce and refrigerated cheese tortellini in the skillet. Incorporate enough chicken broth to create a saucy consistency, then simmer for 5-10 minutes until the tortellini are tender.
Add the Spinach
Stir in torn baby spinach until it wilts, enhancing the dish with color and nutrition.
Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 400 degrees until the cheese is melted and bubbly, typically 10-15 minutes.
Garnish and Serve
Finish with finely chopped parsley and serve alongside garlic bread for a complete meal.
FAQ
Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute ground Italian sausage with other types such as chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, frozen tortellini can be used. Cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the dish.
What if I don’t have fennel seeds?
If you don’t have fennel seeds, you can omit them or use a substitute like anise seeds for a similar flavor profile.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.
Conclusion
This Baked Tortellini dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. The combination of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese, topped with baked mozzarella and Parmesan, makes for a delightful dinner option. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, serving it with garlic bread enhances the overall experience.
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