Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Sausage – A Hearty Italian Casserole
A comforting baked tortellini casserole withItalian sausage, vegetables, and a cheesy topping, perfect for an easy,crowd-pleasing meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 55 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 550 kcal
For the Tortellini
- 1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil
- 450 g ground Italian sausage mild or spicy
- 2 –3 carrots chopped
- 2 –3 celery stalks chopped
- 1 yellow onion minced
- 3 large garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds crushed
- 700 g about 25 oz jar of tomato sauce OR a can of San Marzano tomatoes
- 280-425 g 10–15 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 360-480 ml 1.5–2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups baby spinach torn
For Topping
- 120 g 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 30 g 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Finely chopped parsley for garnish
Heat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C).
Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: In a large, oven-safe skillet or casserole dish, warm the oil over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, cooking it until browned while breaking it apart with a spoon. Next, stir in the chopped carrots, celery, and minced onion. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften Stir in the garlic and crushed fennel seeds, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the Sauce and Broth: Pour in the tomato sauce (or San Marzano tomatoes if using) and chicken broth.
Add Tortellini and Spinach: Gently fold in the refrigerated cheese tortellini and baby spinach. Continue simmering for 2-3 minutes until the spinach begins to wilt and the tortellini is coated in the sauce.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the tortellini mixture.
Bake the Dish: Transfer the skillet or casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.