This Baked Tortellini Lasagna is a fun twist on the classic dish! It layers cheesy tortellini, rich sauce, and gooey cheese, making it super tasty.
The best part? It’s easy to put together! I love throwing it into the oven and letting the magic happen. You won’t believe how quickly it disappears!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is perfect for this dish, offering a delightful taste and texture. If you can’t find it, stuffed pasta like ravioli works too! Alternatively, for a lighter version, you can use vegetable tortellini.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, but Italian sausage adds a great kick! You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option. For a vegetarian version, use mushrooms, lentils, or a store-bought plant-based meat substitute.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta provides creaminess and enhances the lasagna layers. If you’re out, cottage cheese is a suitable substitute—just blend it for a smoother consistency. You could also skip it altogether for a dairy-free option.
Marinara Sauce: A good jar of marinara brings convenience and flavor. Feel free to use homemade sauce if you have it on hand. If you prefer a bit of spice, adding crushed red pepper flakes can make it exciting!
How Can You Make Sure Your Lasagna Isn’t Watery?
A common issue with lasagna is ending up with a watery consistency. Here are tips to avoid that:
- Ensure the tortellini is cooked al dente; it will soak up some sauce without becoming mushy.
- Don’t overload the sauce. A 24 oz jar and 1/2 cup water is generally enough. Adjust based on consistency.
- Always simmer the sauce to reduce excess moisture before layering in the dish. This helps concentrate flavors too!
What’s the Best Way to Layer Your Lasagna?
Layering correctly is key to a well-structured lasagna. Follow these simple steps:
- Start with a thin layer of sauce to prevent sticking. This creates a nice base.
- Add tortellini in an even layer for balanced flavors throughout.
- Dollop ricotta on top and sprinkle mozzarella generously. These creamy layers create lovely contrast.
- Repeat layers as needed, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan for a golden, bubbly top.
Enjoy creating your Baked Tortellini Lasagna! It’s a comforting dish that everyone will love!
Baked Tortellini Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or oregano and basil mix)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Baked Tortellini Lasagna takes about 30 minutes of prep time, and an additional 35-40 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll be enjoying this comforting dish in about 1 hour and 10 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when your lasagna is assembled. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add your tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat:
While the tortellini is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Don’t forget to add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it away.
3. Make the Sauce:
Once the meat is cooked, stir in the marinara sauce along with the water or beef broth. Add the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 5-10 minutes. This helps to blend all those yummy flavors!
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Now comes the fun part! In a greased baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom. Then, add a layer of the cooked tortellini on top. Next, dot spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly over the tortellini layer, followed by a generous sprinkling of mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers until you use up all your ingredients, finishing with a glorious layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top!
5. Bake and Serve:
Cover your baking dish with foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes covered. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Once done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a lovely touch!
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy Baked Tortellini Lasagna! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is traditional, you can use any flavor you prefer, such as spinach or meat-stuffed tortellini. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly based on the filling!
Can I Make This Lasagna Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian! Simply omit the ground beef or sausage and substitute with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. When reheating, cover it with foil to retain moisture.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
