Baked Tortellini Lasagna is a fun twist on classic lasagna, using cheesy tortellini instead of noodles for a soft, pillowy texture that everyone loves. It’s layered with rich tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese, and sometimes a bit of spinach or sausage for extra flavor. This dish is perfect when you want something that feels special but isn’t too complicated to make.
I really enjoy making this when I want a comforting meal that feels like a treat. The best part is how the tortellini soak up all the sauce and cheese, making every bite soft and cheesy. I like to sprinkle a little extra parmesan on top before baking to get that nice golden crust. It always gets compliments from family and friends, and it’s great for feeding a crowd.
One of my favorite ways to serve Baked Tortellini Lasagna is with a simple green salad and crusty bread to scoop up any extra sauce. It’s a perfect dinner for a cozy night in or a casual gathering. Plus, leftovers heat up well, so I always make a little extra and look forward to enjoying it the next day. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy to love and easy to make, this one is a winner in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: I recommend using fresh or refrigerated tortellini for the best texture. If you can’t find it, frozen works well too. For a twist, try spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini.
Ground Meat: Ground beef is classic, but Italian sausage adds extra flavor and spice. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken work great. To keep it vegetarian, swap meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
Cheeses: Ricotta gives creaminess, mozzarella melts beautifully, and Parmesan adds a sharp finish. For dairy-free, try vegan ricotta and mozzarella alternatives. I like to mix in fresh herbs with the ricotta for extra flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought saves time and can be delicious, but homemade sauce with fresh tomatoes makes the dish extra special. Feel free to add extra garlic or herbs to boost the flavor.
How Do I Build Layers That Hold Together and Taste Great?
Layering is key to a lasagna-style dish that’s both tasty and stable. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Spread tortellini evenly so every bite has pasta.
- Dollop ricotta in small spoonfuls so it melts evenly during baking.
- Sprinkle mozzarella to create gooey, melty layers.
- Repeat layers carefully, finishing with sauce and Parmesan for a golden crust.
- Cover with foil while baking to keep moisture in, removing it near the end to brown the top nicely.
Following these tips keeps your lasagna creamy, easy to cut, and packed with flavor every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I like this size because it holds all the layers nicely and bakes evenly.
- Large pot – for boiling the tortellini easily and quickly.
- Skillet – to cook the meat and sauce; non-stick works best for easy cleanup.
- Large spoon or spatula – helps spread the sauce evenly over the layers.
- Aluminum foil – covers the dish during baking to keep it moist and prevent the cheese from burning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use Italian sausage instead of beef for a spicier, more flavorful filling.
- Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost nutrition and add texture.
- Mix in shredded cooked chicken or turkey for a leaner protein option.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or Italian herbs into the sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
Baked Tortellini Lasagna Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta & Meat Sauce:
- 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Cheeses:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 40 minutes to bake, and 5 minutes to cool before serving. In total, plan for roughly 1 hour from start to finish. It’s a simple, hands-on meal that comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let simmer on low heat for 5 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
Add half of the cooked tortellini in an even layer. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the tortellini, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
Pour another layer of meat sauce over the cheese.
Repeat with remaining tortellini, ricotta, mozzarella, and end with the remaining meat sauce on top.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over everything.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the baked tortellini lasagna cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a bright, fresh touch.
Serve warm with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a cozy, comforting meal everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini straight from the freezer. Just add an extra minute or two to the boiling time when cooking, and be sure to drain well before layering to avoid excess moisture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in a covered dish in the oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese works well as a substitute. For a smoother texture, blend it before using. You can also mix in a little cream cheese to mimic the richness of ricotta.