Description
A rich and creamy Cheesy Tortellini Alfredo Bake featuring tender cheese tortellini smothered in a homemade Parmesan Alfredo sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, and baked to golden perfection. This comforting Italian-American casserole makes a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Tortellini
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping and Garnish
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Tortellini: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to package directions until just al dente. Drain the tortellini and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Continue mixing until the cheese has fully melted, resulting in a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Combine Tortellini and Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini to the Alfredo sauce, stirring gently to coat each piece evenly with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the tortellini and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top for a rich, cheesy crust.
- Bake and Broil: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden, slightly crispy top, broil the dish for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot for a comforting and hearty meal.
Notes
- Feel free to add cooked chicken, spinach, or steamed broccoli to the bake for extra protein and texture.
- To save time, use store-bought Alfredo sauce and combine it with cooked tortellini and mozzarella cheese before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
