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Cheesy Pesto Tortellini Bake with Mozzarella Recipe

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4.2 from 9 reviews

This Cheesy Pesto Tortellini Bake with Mozzarella is a quick and comforting Italian-inspired casserole perfect for busy weeknights. Creamy pesto sauce enhanced with spinach coats tender cheese tortellini, all baked to bubbly perfection under a layer of melted mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients

Cheese Tortellini

  • 28 oz frozen cheese tortellini

Sauce

  • 1.5 cups pesto
  • 1.5 cups 2% milk
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water
  • 4 cups fresh spinach

Topping

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9x13-inch rectangular baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and set it aside for later use.
  2. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the frozen cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, reducing the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure the pasta remains firm for baking. Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water.
  3. Make the Pesto Sauce: In a small pot over high heat, combine the pesto and 2% milk. Stir occasionally until the sauce comes to a boil. Add the reserved pasta water, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the drained tortellini to a large mixing bowl and pour the prepared pesto sauce over it. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
  • You can substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different leafy green variation.
  • If you prefer a crispier top, broil the bake for an additional 2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • Use freshly made pesto or store-bought pesto depending on convenience; fresh pesto will enhance the dish's flavor.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave; add a splash of milk to keep sauce creamy when reheating.

Find it online: https://dishcooks.com/cheesy-pesto-tortellini-bake-with-mozzarella-recipe/