Alfredo Tortellini Bake Recipe
This creamy and comforting Alfredo Tortellini Bake combines tender cheese tortellini with a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, topped with bubbly mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a delicious and easy meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
- Author: Zane
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Pasta Base
- 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Tortellini: Boil the refrigerated cheese tortellini in salted water following package instructions but cook for 1–2 minutes less than al dente. Drain thoroughly and toss with olive oil to keep the tortellini from sticking together.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant without browning the garlic.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, continuing to cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat a spoon.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce and toss well to ensure every piece is coated in creamy goodness.
- Assemble Bake: Transfer the tortellini mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese evenly over the top to create a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm to enjoy this comforting, cheesy delight.
Notes
- Add cooked chicken, bacon, or spinach to the bake for extra protein and flavor variation.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative.
- Ensure not to overcook the tortellini initially to prevent mushy texture after baking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce consistency.
Keywords: Alfredo tortellini bake, cheesy pasta bake, baked Alfredo pasta, easy Italian dinner, creamy tortellini recipe