Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Spinach and Marinara -

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the appeal of cheesy baked pasta. One standout recipe that embodies the essence of cozy dining is Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Spinach and Marinara. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also warms the heart, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep for busy days. The combination of tender tortellini enveloped in a rich marinara sauce, layered with creamy cheese and fresh spinach, creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is hard to resist.

Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Spinach and Marinara

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delicious Cheesy Baked Tortellini featuring spinach and marinara. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this dish combines tender tortellini, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses for a melty, satisfying experience. Nutrient-packed spinach adds a healthy twist, making it both indulgent and wholesome. Follow simple steps for a crowd-pleasing meal that will warm your heart and your table.

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Ingredients

12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

2 cups marinara sauce

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Cook the Tortellini:

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they reach the al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set them aside.

Prepare the Ricotta Filling:

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they form a smooth filling.

Layer the Ingredients:

Take a large baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom. Add half of the cooked tortellini on top of the sauce. Next, dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the tortellini, followed by half of the chopped spinach. Repeat this layering process with the remaining tortellini, ricotta filling, and spinach, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce on top.

Add the Cheesy Topping:

Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and all of the grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer of marinara sauce, ensuring it covers the dish completely.

Bake to Perfection:

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and a rich golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes to set the layers. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you like, and serve hot for a comforting meal.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 4 servings