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Tortellini Bake
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4-Ingredient Pesto Tortellini Bake So Easy It’s Magic

Easy4-Ingredient Tortellini Bake recipe that’s cheesy, flavorful, and perfect forquick weeknight dinners. Ready in under 30 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Dish / Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

The Core Four:
  • Cheese Tortellini – Fresh or refrigerated tortellini works best here. It cooks up quickly and has that rich satisfying bite. If you're using frozen tortellini, just be sure to boil it first according to the package instructions.
  • Basil Pesto – A good-quality jarred pesto brings bold herby flavor in seconds. You can use homemade if you have it, but store-bought makes this dinner ultra quick.
  • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – For that irresistible melty gooey top layer. Feel free to mix in some Parmesan for a little extra savory depth.
  • Heavy Cream or Ricotta – Just a splash of cream helps bind everything together and adds that luscious, creamy texture. Ricotta is a great swap if you prefer a slightly lighter, fluffy finish.
Optional Add-Ins (if you want to jazz it up):
  • Cooked Chicken or Italian Sausage – For a protein-packed twist
  • Spinach or Kale – Stir in for extra color and nutrition
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a tangy savory punch
  • Red Pepper Flakes – A pinch goes a long way for heat lovers

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions:
    Preheat the Oven
    1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it's nice and hot when your tortellini bake goes in.
    Prepare the Tortellini
    1. o If you're using refrigerated tortellini, no need to boil — it will cook perfectly in the oven.
    2. o For frozen tortellini, cook according to package instructions and drain well before using.
    Mix the Sauce
    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
    2. o Pesto
    3. o Heavy cream (or ricotta, if using)
    4. Stir until smooth and creamy — this is your magic sauce base!
    Assemble the Bake
    1. In a lightly greased baking dish:
    2. o Add the tortellini and pour the pesto-cream mixture over the top.
    3. o Gently toss to coat every piece evenly.
    4. o Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the top for that golden, melty finish.
    Bake to Perfection
    1. o Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
    2. o Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

    Notes

    Nutrition Information (per serving)
    • Calories: 450 kcal
    • Total Fat: 22g
    • Saturated Fat: 10g
    • Cholesterol: 50mg
    • Sodium: 600mg
    • Total Carbohydrates: 38g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 2g
    • Protein: 18g