If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, you absolutely need to try this Cheese Tortellini Baked Casserole with Spinach and Marinara Recipe. This casserole layers tender cheese-filled tortellini with vibrant spinach and herby marinara sauce, topped with a generous blanket of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors that make every bite a little celebration. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a cozy dinner, this recipe is simple to put together but impressive in taste, making it your new go-to for weeknight satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key for this dish’s irresistible flavor and texture. Each one plays a crucial role, from the creamy cheese tortellini to the fresh greens and rich cheeses, all coming together for a colorful and delicious casserole.
- Cheese tortellini (16 to 20 ounces): The star of the dish, providing pillowy pasta pockets filled with creamy cheese.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups, roughly chopped): Adds a fresh, vibrant green color and subtle earthiness that balances the richness.
- Flat-leaf parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Brings brightness and a mild herbaceous note to uplift the flavors.
- Fresh oregano (2 teaspoons, chopped) or dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Offers a fragrant, slightly peppery flavor perfect for marinara-based dishes.
- Marinara sauce (2 cups): A robust tomato base that ties everything together with its tangy sweetness and herbs.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup shredded, divided): Melts beautifully to create that gooey, irresistible topping and inside the casserole.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup freshly grated, divided): Provides a sharp, nutty finish that enhances every bite.
How to Make Cheese Tortellini Baked Casserole with Spinach and Marinara Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly oiling an 8-inch square or 1 ½ quart baking dish. This simple prep helps prevent sticking and ensures your casserole will come out of the dish clean and looking beautiful.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain thoroughly to get rid of any excess water — this keeps your casserole from becoming soggy.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a spacious bowl, toss together the cooked tortellini, marinara sauce, chopped spinach, parsley, oregano, and half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mixing everything before baking ensures each bite is bursting with flavor and cheese-coated goodness.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer this delicious mixture to your oiled baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top. This cheese layer will melt into a golden, bubbly topping that’s pure magic.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to melt completely, the sauce to bubble enticingly around the edges, and the whole dish to be warmed through.
Step 6: Finish With a Broil
For that perfect golden crust, switch your oven to broil for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn — just the right quick blast will give you a delightfully crisp and browned cheese top.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Garnished
Remove from the oven and let it cool just slightly before serving. A sprinkle of extra parsley or Parmesan can add a fresh or salty touch to finish — but honestly, this casserole is stunning just as it is.
How to Serve Cheese Tortellini Baked Casserole with Spinach and Marinara Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like extra flat-leaf parsley or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese make wonderful garnishes. They brighten the dish visually and enhance subtle flavor layers without overpowering the cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands strong on its own, but fresh garlic bread or a crisp green salad are perfect companions. They add contrast in texture and refresh the palate between cheesy, saucy bites.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests, consider individual ramekins for personalized servings that look elegant yet cozy. You could also layer the casserole in a clear glass dish for a beautiful display of the colorful ingredients before baking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep deliciously fresh for up to 3 days, making them ideal for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before baking or after cooling. Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap to protect against freezer burn, and it will be good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the best taste and texture, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Microwaving works too but may result in less even heat and a softer texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh in this recipe?
Yes, frozen spinach works, but be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to keep your casserole from becoming watery.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and ensure your marinara sauce is free from animal products. There are many plant-based tortellini options or you can substitute with another pasta shape.
Can I substitute the cheese tortellini with meat-filled tortellini?
You can, though that will change the flavor profile slightly. The spinach and marinara sauce will still complement meat-filled varieties well, just be aware the dish won’t be vegetarian.
How spicy is this casserole? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly by default, but feel free to add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara before mixing for a nice kick.
Can I prepare this dish for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and use a larger baking dish. Baking time may vary slightly, so watch for bubbling sauce and melted cheese to guide you.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Tortellini Baked Casserole with Spinach and Marinara Recipe truly captures the essence of comfort food that feels homemade and special. Its simplicity paired with vibrant flavors makes it an absolute crowd-pleaser, perfect for all kinds of occasions or just a cozy night in. I can’t wait for you to dive in and realize how easy it is to make a dish that tastes like a celebration in every bite!
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Cheese Tortellini Baked Casserole with Spinach and Marinara Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This delicious baked tortellini recipe combines tender cheese tortellini with fresh spinach, herbs, marinara sauce, and a blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s an easy and comforting Italian-inspired casserole perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, offering a cheesy, savory dish that’s baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 (16 to 20 ounce) package cheese tortellini (or any variety)
- 2 cups roughly chopped fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup roughly chopped flat-leaf parsley
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (fresh, packaged, or smoked; divided)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly oil an 8-inch square or 1 ½ quart baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. Drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the cooked tortellini, marinara sauce, chopped spinach, parsley, oregano, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the tortellini mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted, the sauce is bubbling around the edges, and everything is heated through.
- Broil for topping: For a golden-brown top, briefly place the casserole under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot, garnished with extra parsley or Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use any variety of tortellini you prefer; meat-filled or cheese-filled works well.
- Fresh herbs enhance the flavor but dried oregano can be substituted if fresh is unavailable.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce before mixing.
- To make ahead, assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
