Million Dollar Baked Tortellini

Name: Million Dollar Baked Tortellini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 16 oz tortellini (fresh or frozen); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 lb ground beef (optional)

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Looking for an easy yet irresistible dinner that your family will love? Million Dollar Baked Tortellini is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender tortellini pasta with a creamy, cheesy sauce that bakes to perfection. This dish is the perfect weeknight meal — quick to prepare, flavorful, and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a hearty meal for your family, this baked tortellini casserole is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Baked Tortellini

Million Dollar Baked Tortellini is everything you need in a cozy meal. It’s rich, cheesy, and indulgent, with minimal prep time. The dish is perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. This easy-to-make recipe is both comforting and family-friendly, making it ideal for a no-fuss dinner.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Baked Tortellini

Tortellini: The star of the dish, offering a soft, pillowy texture that soaks up the creamy sauce.

Cream Cheese: Adds richness and creaminess, creating a velvety texture that binds all the flavors together.
Ricotta Cheese: Contributes to the smooth, creamy consistency and enhances the cheesy flavor profile.
Shredded Mozzarella: A must for that melt-in-your-mouth, gooey cheese pull effect.

Parmesan Cheese: For a slightly nutty, sharp contrast to the creamier cheeses.
Marinara Sauce: Brings a tangy tomato flavor that balances the richness of the cheeses.
Garlic Powder: Adds depth and a subtle savory aroma to the dish.

Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs that enhances the overall flavor, giving the dish an authentic Italian flair.
Ground Beef (Optional): For those who want a meatier option, ground beef adds extra protein and richness to the casserole.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to adjust this recipe to meet dietary needs or preferences, here are some simple swaps:

For a vegetarian option: Skip the ground beef and use extra vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, for added flavor and texture.
For a gluten-free version: Choose gluten-free tortellini or substitute with gluten-free pasta.
Dairy-free version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and mozzarella to keep the creamy and cheesy elements intact without the dairy.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Million Dollar Baked Tortellini

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or butter.
Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Add the marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt to taste. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the dish: Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl with the sauce and toss to coat. If you’re using ground beef, add it now.
Layer the casserole: Pour the tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the cheesy sauce to set, making it easier to dish out.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Million Dollar Baked Tortellini

Check for doneness: Make sure the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden before removing from the oven. The edges should be bubbling, signaling that it’s ready.
Flavor enhancement: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika on top before serving.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven or microwave until hot.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Million Dollar Baked Tortellini is rich and hearty, so it pairs beautifully with a light side salad, some garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, serve with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad.

Variations:

Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce for a little kick.

Make it low-carb: Swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles or another low-carb option.

Health Benefits of Million Dollar Baked Tortellini

While this dish is indulgent, you can make it healthier by incorporating more veggies or opting for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. The cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, making it a satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Baked Tortellini is a simple yet indulgent recipe that combines the best of creamy, cheesy comfort food with a burst of savory flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite. With its easy-to-follow steps and versatile ingredient options, you can make it your own while still delivering a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. Try it today and experience the cheesy, comforting goodness that is Million Dollar Baked Tortellini!

FAQ About Million Dollar Baked Tortellini

1. Can I make Million Dollar Baked Tortellini ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Million Dollar Baked Tortellini casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the instructions, but add a few extra minutes of cooking time as it will be cold from the fridge.

2. Can I freeze Million Dollar Baked Tortellini?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden.

3. How can I make Million Dollar Baked Tortellini spicier?

To add some heat to the dish, consider mixing in red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even some hot Italian sausage for a spicy twist. You can also sprinkle some chili powder on top before baking for an added kick.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

While tortellini is the star of this dish, you can easily swap it out for other pasta types like ravioli, penne, or rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose. The creamy, cheesy sauce will still work perfectly with any pasta you prefer

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Million Dollar Baked Tortellini – Easy & Cheesy Recipe

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