Baked Tortellini Lasagna is a cozy, cheesy dish that mixes classic lasagna flavors with the fun, pillowy texture of tortellini pasta. It’s loaded with marinara sauce, gooey melted cheese, and a sprinkle of herbs that make every bite comforting and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for when you’re craving something hearty but want to switch up the usual lasagna routine.
I love making this baked tortellini lasagna because it comes together so easily, and it’s always a hit with everyone at the table. Instead of layering traditional noodles, the tortellini adds a fun twist and stays nice and tender after baking. I usually toss in some fresh basil or a little extra Parmesan cheese on top for that little burst of flavor that makes the dish feel extra special.
When I serve this, I like pairing it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to balance out the richness. It’s one of those meals that fills the house with a wonderful aroma, making mealtime feel warm and inviting. Plus, leftovers the next day are just as tasty, which is always a bonus in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini adds a soft, cheesy bite that’s different from traditional lasagna noodles. Fresh is best for tenderness, but frozen works perfectly, just don’t overcook them before baking.
Ground Meat: Italian sausage brings extra flavor with herbs and spices. You can swap it for ground beef, turkey, or chicken depending on your preference or diet.
Cheese: Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan create creamy layers and melty topping. For a lighter version, try part-skim cheeses or replace ricotta with cottage cheese if you want a mild but still creamy texture.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade for the best flavor. Feel free to add extra spices or a pinch of sugar if the sauce tastes too acidic.
How Do I Layer Tortellini Lasagna Without Making It Mushy?
The key is to keep each layer balanced so the dish bakes evenly without getting soggy. Here’s what works well:
- Cook tortellini just until al dente to avoid over-softening during baking.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the dish bottom to prevent sticking and moisture buildup.
- Alternate layers of tortellini, cheese mixture, and meat sauce evenly for good flavor distribution.
- Cover with foil while baking to keep moisture in; remove foil near the end for golden cheese topping.
- Let the baked lasagna rest before serving—this helps it set and slice cleanly.
Following these steps ensures your baked tortellini lasagna stays firm, cheesy, and delicious with every slice.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I like this for browning the sausage and simmering the sauce easily.
- Large pot – for boiling the tortellini until just al dente, so it doesn’t get too soft in the oven.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses for layering.
- Baking dish (9×13 inch) – spacious enough for all the layers and easy to serve from.
- Foil – helps cover the lasagna while baking, keeping it moist and preventing cheese from burning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked Italian sausage with herbs or swap in cooked chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
- Mix in sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Add a splash of red pepper flakes or Italian herbs to the sauce for a little extra spice or herbal aroma.
- Top with fresh basil, parsley, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for a fresh flavor boost.
Baked Tortellini Lasagna Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage or ground beef
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Flavorings and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves or parsley for garnish
Time Needed
This tasty baked tortellini lasagna takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook the sausage and tortellini. Then, it bakes covered for 20 minutes and uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly. Allow about 5 minutes at the end for resting, so plan for roughly 50 minutes total from start to serving time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by boiling the tortellini in salted water according to the package instructions until just al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground Italian sausage or beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed. Then, stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Mix the Cheese Layer:
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and ready to layer.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Next, add half of the cooked tortellini evenly over the sauce. Spoon half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the tortellini. Spread another layer of meat sauce over the cheese. Add the remaining tortellini, and cover with the rest of the meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
5. Bake and Serve:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. When done, take it out and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a lovely fresh touch.
This baked tortellini lasagna blends cheesy richness with hearty meat and soft pasta for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to make on any night.
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook the frozen tortellini according to package instructions until al dente before assembling the lasagna. Avoid overcooking so they hold up well during baking.
Can I Make Baked Tortellini Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it covered and add a few extra minutes to the baking time as it heats through evenly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at low temperature or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Serve with Baked Tortellini Lasagna?
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance the richness and make a complete meal.