This Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole is a cozy and cheesy dish that combines juicy tortellini with rich sauce and plenty of gooey cheese. It’s sure to make everyone at the table smile!
Who doesn’t love a meal that feels fancy but is super easy to whip up? I always add a sprinkle of herbs on top for a little extra flavor. Plus, leftovers are a treat for lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I prefer using refrigerated cheese tortellini for its great flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, frozen tortellini works too; just cook it a bit longer.
Meat: Ground beef is my go-to, but Italian sausage adds lovely spice. Feel free to use turkey or even a plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Marinara Sauce: Any jar of marinara works, but homemade is best if you have the time. You can also use crushed tomatoes with Italian herbs as a substitute.
Cheeses: Ricotta is creamy and smooth, while mozzarella gives that classic stretchy topping. For a twist, try cottage cheese instead of ricotta, and add a sprinkling of feta for flavor.
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing the onion. You could replace it with any cooking oil you have on hand, like vegetable or canola oil.
How Can I Ensure the Perfect Bake?
The secret to a great casserole is even baking. Here are some tips to achieve that:
- Preheat the oven fully before putting your casserole in. This helps with cooking the dish evenly.
- Cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes if you find it browns too quickly. This helps it heat through without burning the top.
- Let it cool for a few minutes after baking. This allows the cheese to set up a bit, making it easier to serve.
Enjoy making your tortellini casserole, and make it your own by playing with the ingredients! It’s hard to go wrong with a dish this comforting.
How to Make Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 1 package (about 9-10 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
Cheesy Layers:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15-20 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, plus a few extra minutes to cool down before serving. Total time: approximately 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s hot enough when your casserole is ready to bake.
2. Cook the Tortellini:
Boil a pot of water and cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until just al dente. Once done, drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the rest.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
4. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off.
5. Combine with Sauce:
After the meat is cooked, stir in the marinara or spaghetti sauce. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting all the flavors mix together beautifully. Then, take it off the heat.
6. Mix the Cheesy Filling:
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. This creamy mix will add richness to your casserole.
7. Combine Everything:
Gently mix the cooked tortellini with the meat sauce and the ricotta mixture, making sure everything is well combined.
8. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the Parmesan cheese on top.
9. Bake It:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Final Touches:
When it’s done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it set and make it easier to serve. Finally, garnish with some chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
11. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole! This dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, and it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! If using frozen tortellini, just cook it a little longer according to the package instructions until it’s heated through. You may want to thaw it slightly before cooking for a more even result.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, cottage cheese can be a great alternative! Just blend it a bit to achieve a smoother consistency. You could also use cream cheese for a richer flavor.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead! Assemble it up to the baking stage, cover tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake it for a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
