Baked Three-Cheese Tortellini Casserole

If you’re craving a cozy, cheesy dinner that’s ready to impress but simple enough for a weeknight, this Baked Three-Cheese Tortellini Casserole is your new best friend. Combining tender cheese tortellini with a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all baked to bubbly perfection with savory marinara and a hint of Italian seasoning, this dish is pure comfort food heaven. The addition of cooked and crumbled turkey bacon adds a smoky twist that elevates every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole hits all the right notes — hearty, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Baked Three-Cheese Tortellini Casserole quickly becomes a staple because it checks all the boxes. It’s incredibly easy to assemble, making dinner stress-free on busy nights. The layers of cheese create a creamy, dreamy texture that pairs perfectly with tangy marinara sauce. Plus, the use of cheese tortellini means you get built-in cheesy pockets in every forkful, upping the comfort factor. The turkey bacon adds a subtle crunch and flavor contrast without overpowering the dish. It’s versatile, too — great as a family dinner, a potluck showstopper, or even a make-ahead meal that tastes just as good reheated. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

What You’ll Need

• 12 ounces cheese tortellini – Fresh or frozen works great; no need to cook first.
• 2 cups marinara sauce – Choose your favorite jarred brand or homemade for extra flavor.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – Adds creamy richness to the casserole.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for that stretchy, gooey texture.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Provides a sharp, nutty depth.
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon – Adds smokiness and texture; feel free to substitute with cooked ground beef or sausage.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to flavor the casserole.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For a gentle garlicky undertone.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season everything perfectly.
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional) – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal note.

Hardware & Gadgets

• 9×13 inch baking dish – Ideal size for layering and baking the casserole.
• Mixing bowls – For combining cheeses and seasoning.
• Spoon or spatula – To mix and spread ingredients evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure the right balance of flavors.
• Colander – If you prefer to boil fresh tortellini before baking.

Baked Three-Cheese Tortellini Casserole: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Cheeses

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This cheese mixture will create the creamy base of your casserole.

Step 3: Combine Tortellini and Sauce

In a large bowl, toss the uncooked cheese tortellini with the marinara sauce and the crumbled cooked turkey bacon. Make sure every piece of tortellini is coated in the sauce and bacon goodness.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Spread half of the saucy tortellini mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Dollop and gently spread half of the cheese mixture over the tortellini layer. Add the remaining tortellini mixture on top, then finish with the remaining cheese mixture.

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top to create a golden, bubbly crust once baked.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly crisp.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

If you love this recipe, be sure to check out other comforting pasta dishes like Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Tortellini for a tangy twist, or the indulgent Four Cheese Baked Ziti for more cheesy goodness.

Swap Guide

• Turkey bacon: Substitute with cooked ground beef, chicken sausage, or omit for a vegetarian version.
• Marinara sauce: Use your favorite tomato-based pasta sauce or a homemade version with fresh tomatoes and herbs.
• Cheese tortellini: Swap for spinach or mushroom tortellini, or even ravioli for variety.
• Ricotta cheese: Cottage cheese blended until smooth can work as a lighter alternative.
• Seasonings: Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary can replace Italian seasoning for a more personalized flavor.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Don’t skip seasoning the cheese mixture — salt and pepper are key to balancing the flavors.
• If using frozen tortellini, no need to thaw; just toss them directly with the sauce.
• Covering the casserole while baking locks in moisture and prevents the cheese from drying out.
• Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole or individual portions with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 1-minute increments, stirring between times for even heating. For the best texture, avoid freezing this casserole as the cheese and sauce textures can change after thawing.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since the casserole will be cold.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives for ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. There are many plant-based cheeses available that melt well and will maintain the creamy texture of the dish.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely. Adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to cook any vegetables beforehand to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

What’s the best way to cook the turkey bacon for this recipe?

Cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, then crumble it once cooled. This ensures a nice smoky flavor and adds texture without becoming soggy in the casserole.

You Might Also Like

• Cheesy Spinach Alfredo Tortellini – A creamy, comforting pasta dish loaded with spinach and cheese.
• Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Tortellini – Tangy sun dried tomatoes blend beautifully with tender tortellini.
• Four Cheese Baked Ziti – Another cheesy casserole favorite that’s perfect for family dinners.

Hungry for More?

If you love this Baked Three-Cheese Tortellini Casserole, don’t stop here! Explore more delicious recipes that bring comfort and flavor to your table. From creamy pasta bakes to fresh, vibrant salads, there’s always something new to try and enjoy. Dive into a world of tasty inspiration and make every meal memorable.

This Baked Three-Cheese Tortellini Casserole is a shining example of how simple ingredients combine to create something truly special. Layered with cheesy goodness, savory bacon, and rich marinara, it’s a go-to dish that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this casserole promises to be a hit every single time. Grab your ingredients and get baking!

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