This Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole is warm and cheesy, perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with tasty tortellini, creamy sauce, and lots of melted cheese, it’s a hit!
Honestly, who can resist a cheesy casserole? It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love serving it with garlic bread for a meal that’s both satisfying and super easy to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here, but you can use other pastas like ravioli or even penne if preferred. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using a different type!
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based sausage or lentils for a hearty texture without meat.
Onion: I love yellow onions for their sweetness. However, you can swap with shallots or even green onions for a milder flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara is super easy, but homemade sauce adds something special. If you’re short on time, any tomato-based sauce you have can work as a substitute!
Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess, but cottage cheese is a great low-fat alternative. For the mozzarella, feel free to use provolone or even a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Make Sure the Cheese is Perfectly Melty?
Getting that gooey cheese texture right is key to a great casserole. Pre-grated cheese often has anti-caking agents, which can prevent proper melting, so I suggest shredding your own cheese when you can.
- Layering cheese between the tortellini ensures maximum melt. Make sure the last layer is cheese for a bubbly top!
- Keep an eye on your casserole in the last few minutes of baking. You want it to be golden, not burnt.
How to Make Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 package (about 20 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare, plus another 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 45-50 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to make sure the casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Tortellini:
Cook your tortellini according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes just a few minutes if you’re using fresh. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, drizzle in some olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This is where your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
4. Cook the Meat:
Add the ground beef or Italian sausage into the skillet. Break up any clumps with a spatula and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through. If there’s a lot of excess fat, don’t forget to drain it!
5. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the marinara sauce along with the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let this sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes to let all those flavors work together beautifully.
6. Combine Everything:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, the meat sauce, and the ricotta cheese. Mix gently until everything is well blended—this is the hearty layer of your casserole!
7. Layer the Casserole:
Transfer half of this tortellini mixture into your prepared baking dish. Now, sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Then, add the remaining tortellini mixture, and finish by topping it all off with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden brown. That’s the cheesy goodness you’re aiming for!
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the layers set a little. Just before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of flavor and color!
Enjoy your hearty and cheesy Million Dollar Tortellini Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, and remember to drain them before mixing with the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, you can use cottage cheese for a similar texture. For a dairy-free option, tofu blended with a little lemon juice can mimic the creaminess of ricotta.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef or sausage with a plant-based meat alternative or even sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to keep it hearty and delicious.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option!
