Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole – Easy Family Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner, this Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole is the perfect choice. Loaded with tender cheese tortellini, rich marinara sauce, seasoned ground beef, and layers of melted mozzarella, this baked pasta casserole is hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep, this cheesy tortellini bake is a guaranteed family favorite in American households.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole

✅ Ready in under 45 minutes
✅ Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
✅ Perfect for feeding a crowd
✅ Freezer-friendly
✅ Kid-approved comfort food

This baked tortellini recipe combines the flavors of lasagna with the ease of a simple casserole.

Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole

Main Ingredients:

20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Cheese Layer:

1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup sour cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish:

Fresh basil or parsley

How to Make Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

Boil tortellini according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess grease. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Cheese Layer

In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese and sour cream until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the baking dish. Add half of the tortellini. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the tortellini. Sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with remaining sauce and mozzarella. Top with Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Rest & Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Tips for the Best Baked Tortellini

Don’t overcook the tortellini before baking.
Use freshly shredded mozzarella for better melting.
Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Let it rest before serving for cleaner slices.

Easy Variations

Swap ground beef for Italian sausage for extra flavor.
Add spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Use three-cheese tortellini for even more richness.
Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding extra veggies.

What to Serve with Cheesy Tortellini Casserole

Pair this hearty pasta bake with:

Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Roasted broccoli
Steamed green beans

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just adjust cooking time slightly and cook until al dente before baking.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.

How do I prevent it from drying out?

Cover with foil during the first part of baking to retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole is a rich, comforting, and easy pasta bake that’s perfect for American family dinners. With layers of tender tortellini, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Make this simple baked tortellini recipe tonight and enjoy a warm, cheesy dinner everyone will love!

Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole