Baked Tortellini Lasagna is a fun twist on classic lasagna that everyone in the family will enjoy. Instead of using the traditional flat pasta sheets, this recipe features cheesy tortellini, layers of rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and plenty of melted mozzarella. The result is a hearty, comforting dish that’s bubbling and golden on top with a lovely mix of textures in every bite.
I love making this when I want something easy to put together but still feel like I’m serving a special meal. One of my favorite tips is to let it rest for a few minutes after baking so the layers set nicely—it makes serving so much easier and keeps everything cozy on the plate. Plus, using tortellini means less prep since there’s no need to pre-cook noodles or worry about layering perfectly.
Serving this with a simple salad or some garlic bread rounds out the meal perfectly. It’s the kind of recipe that fills the kitchen with amazing smells and has everyone asking for seconds. Whenever I make it, it feels like a little celebration, and everyone loves how the cheesy pasta melts together with the sauce in such a satisfying way. It’s comfort food done right and always a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: The star of this recipe! I like using refrigerated cheese tortellini because it cooks quickly and has a great cheesy filling. If you need a vegetarian option, use cheese-only tortellini or try spinach and ricotta tortellini.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Either adds great flavor and texture. I personally prefer Italian sausage for its extra seasoning. For a lighter choice, ground turkey or plant-based meat substitutes work well too.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese helps bind the layers and adds richness. If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese is a good substitute—just blend it smooth before using.
Mozzarella & Parmesan: Mozzarella melts beautifully, giving that golden, bubbly top. Parmesan adds a salty kick. If you want less dairy, swap mozzarella for a lower-fat cheese or omit Parmesan and sprinkle herbs instead.
Marinara Sauce: A classic tomato sauce with herbs is perfect here. You can swap store-bought sauce for homemade or use a meat sauce if you want a deeper flavor.
How Do I Layer and Bake Tortellini Lasagna Without It Getting Soggy?
Getting the layers right helps keep the lasagna tasty and not watery. Here’s a simple method:
- Drain the tortellini well: After cooking, give them a good drain so they don’t add extra moisture in the baking dish.
- Spread sauces evenly: Make thin layers of sauce between the tortellini and ricotta. It helps everything cook evenly and prevents sogginess.
- Cover with foil while baking: This traps steam so the tortellini cook well but prevents the cheese on top from burning.
- Remove foil halfway: Letting the top get golden for the last 10-15 minutes makes it nice and bubbly.
- Rest before serving: Letting lasagna sit 5-10 minutes helps the layers set, so it slices clean and doesn’t fall apart.
Following these tips will give you a delicious, bubbly baked tortellini lasagna with perfectly melted cheese and tender pasta layers every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I prefer this size because it fits all the layers perfectly and bakes evenly.
- Large skillet – for cooking the meat and sauce; a non-stick pan makes cleanup easier.
- Medium bowl – to mix the ricotta cheese mixture; a sturdy bowl helps with smooth mixing.
- Pot for boiling tortellini – a deep pot prevents splashes and makes draining easier.
- Serving spoon or spatula – for layering and serving; a spatula helps lift out clean slices.
- Aluminum foil – to cover while baking, trapping heat and moisture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for cooked shredded chicken or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Add sautéed spinach or zucchini layers to boost greens and add fresh texture.
- Mix in hot red pepper flakes or Italian herbs with the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use a blend of cheeses like provolone or fontina for extra cheesy goodness and different flavors.
Baked Tortellini Lasagna Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (19 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
Flavorings:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 35-40 minutes to bake. Including resting time, plan for about 55 minutes before you can enjoy your cheesy, delicious baked tortellini lasagna.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces. Stir in the minced garlic during the last minute. Drain excess fat. Then add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, simmer for 5 minutes, and take it off the heat.
2. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently until everything is well mixed and creamy.
3. Cook the Tortellini:
Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente (firm but cooked). Drain well to avoid excess water that could make the lasagna soggy.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Next, layer half of the cooked tortellini evenly over the sauce. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top and spread it carefully. Pour half of the remaining meat sauce over the cheese. Repeat these layers once more: tortellini, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella evenly on top.
5. Bake and Serve:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden. Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like, then enjoy your warm, comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the tortellini before cooking or bake it a few minutes longer covered with foil to ensure it cooks through evenly.
Can I Make Baked Tortellini Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Meat in the Sauce?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative all work well. You can also skip the meat for a vegetarian version and add extra veggies instead.
