Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole

There’s nothing quite like a comforting casserole to bring your family together at the dinner table. This Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining tender tortellini, savory meat sauce, and a rich, creamy cheese blend into one irresistible dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s explore how to make this decadent casserole step by step.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

• Incredibly Comforting: This casserole is the epitome of comfort food, with layers of cheesy, saucy goodness.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and clear steps, even beginners can master this recipe.
• Versatile: You can customize it with your favorite protein or make it vegetarian if you’d like.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this show-stopping dish.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Tortellini (fresh or frozen)	1 pound
Ground beef or turkey	1 pound
Marinara sauce	2 cups
Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon
Onion powder	1/2 teaspoon
Italian seasoning	1/2 teaspoon

Cheese Mixture

Ingredient	Amount
Cream cheese (softened)	8 ounces
Sour cream	1/2 cup
Grated Parmesan cheese	1/2 cup
Shredded mozzarella cheese	1 1/2 cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tortellini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, typically 3–5 minutes for fresh tortellini or a bit longer for frozen. Drain the tortellini and set it aside.

2. Make the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming too oily.
Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Now it’s time to bring everything together.

• Spread half of the cooked tortellini in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Top the tortellini with half of the meat sauce, followed by dollops of the cream cheese mixture.
• Repeat the layers with the remaining tortellini, meat sauce, and cream cheese mixture.

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

5. Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. For a golden, crispy finish, broil the casserole for an additional 2–3 minutes.

Tips for the Perfect Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tortellini and high-quality marinara sauce will elevate the dish.
• Customize the Protein: Substitute ground sausage, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a twist.
• Make it Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini instead.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450-500 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbohydrates	35 g
Fat	20 g
Saturated Fat	12 g
Sodium	750 mg

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Side Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with a vinaigrette balance the richness.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans make a great addition.

FAQs About Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

3. What’s the best type of tortellini to use?

Fresh tortellini works best for this recipe, but frozen tortellini is a great alternative. Stick to cheese-filled or your favorite variety.

4. Can I substitute the cream cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture.

5. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Cover the dish with foil during the first 20 minutes of baking to retain moisture, then uncover it to melt the cheese.

6. What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

You can substitute marinara with a tomato-based pasta sauce or even a homemade version for a personal touch.

Conclusion

This Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole is the kind of recipe that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its creamy, cheesy layers and savory meat sauce make it an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.

So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and treat your family to a dish that feels like a million bucks! Don’t forget to share your experience or pass the recipe on to a friend who loves cooking. Happy baking!

Print