Introduction
Baked Alfredo Tortellini is a creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting dish perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or any occasion when you crave a hearty, satisfying meal. This recipe combines tender cheese-stuffed tortellini with a velvety Alfredo sauce, topped with a decadent mozzarella-Parmesan crust that bakes to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is simple to prepare. Whether served with a crisp salad or buttery garlic bread, this baked pasta dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
- For the Pasta Bake:
- 24 ounces (about 1.5 pounds) cheese tortellini, refrigerated or frozen
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken breast
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a light brush of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes for refrigerated tortellini. Be careful not to overcook; the pasta should be al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Sauce
Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the Alfredo sauce until well coated. If you’re adding cooked chicken, mushrooms, or broccoli, mix them in at this stage.
Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish
Pour the tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If the cheese is browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.
COOKING Note:
- Consistency of Sauce: If the Alfredo sauce seems too thick, you can thin it with a splash of milk or chicken broth before mixing with the tortellini.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add more veggies like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts.
- Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the rich Alfredo sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a rich Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Toppings: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or scatter toasted pine nuts for extra texture.
Tips:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Tortellini: Both work well in this recipe, but adjust the cooking time as needed. Frozen tortellini may require a minute or two longer to cook.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses in the crust, like Gruyère or fontina, for a unique twist.
- Meal Prep: You can assemble this dish a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store in the fridge. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 22g
- Sodium: 890mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Conclusion
Baked Alfredo Tortellini with Mozzarella-Parmesan Crust is a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal that brings all the flavors of a classic Italian pasta dish straight to your table. Easy to prepare and even easier to love, this creamy, cheesy casserole will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner occasion, this dish is bound to become a household favorite.
PrintBaked Alfredo Tortellini with Mozzarella-Parmesan Crust
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
- For the Pasta Bake:
- 24 ounces (about 1.5 pounds) cheese tortellini, refrigerated or frozen
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken breast
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a light brush of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes for refrigerated tortellini. Be careful not to overcook; the pasta should be al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Sauce
Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the Alfredo sauce until well coated. If you’re adding cooked chicken, mushrooms, or broccoli, mix them in at this stage.
Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish
Pour the tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If the cheese is browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 520
- Sodium: 890mg
- Protein: 22g