Cheesy Pesto Tortellini Bake with Mozzarella Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, vibrant dish that packs a punch with every bite, the Cheesy Pesto Tortellini Bake with Mozzarella Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine pillowy fresh cheese tortellini swimming in velvety basil pesto and rich cream, studded with sweet pops of peas and topped with golden, melted mozzarella and Parmesan. This bake is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with bright herbal notes, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser that’s both sophisticated and simple enough for a weeknight dinner. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting great results with the Cheesy Pesto Tortellini Bake with Mozzarella Recipe is all about quality, straightforward ingredients. Each component plays its part in creating the perfect balance of flavor, color, and luscious texture that makes this dish so special.

• 20 ounces fresh cheese tortellini: The star of the dish, these tender pillows bring creamy cheese filling and a soft pasta chew.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Adds luscious richness that binds everything together and keeps the tortellini super moist.
• ½ cup basil pesto: Bursting with fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts, this classic pesto infuses vibrant herbal flavor throughout.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish): A salty, nutty touch that amps up the savory depth of the bake.
• 1 heaping cup frozen peas: These little green gems bring color, a subtle sweetness, and pop of freshness.
• Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite and balance the creamy sauce.

How to Make Cheesy Pesto Tortellini Bake with Mozzarella Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fresh cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually 3 to 5 minutes. They should be tender but still hold their shape perfectly. Drain the tortellini and set them aside while you mix up the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Pesto Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and basil pesto until smooth and vibrant green. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt into the sauce and add that irresistible umami kick. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to complement the herbs and cheese beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Gently fold your cooked tortellini and frozen peas into the pesto cream sauce, making sure every pasta piece is lovingly coated with the silky mixture. The peas will thaw quickly here, adding bursts of color and sweetness.

Step 4: Assemble and Add Mozzarella

Pour the tortellini mixture into a greased baking dish, then generously scatter shredded mozzarella over the top. This cheese melts into gooey, golden perfection, creating a delectably cheesy crust that defines this dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your baking dish into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted, bubbly, and showing golden spots. The bake will be fragrant, creamy, and irresistible when it comes out.

How to Serve Cheesy Pesto Tortellini Bake with Mozzarella Recipe

Garnishes

To really make your dish shine, add a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves just before serving. These simple touches brighten the flavors and add a fresh, herbal note that complements the rich creaminess perfectly.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables balances out the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are excellent choices too, perfect for mopping up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, serve the Cheesy Pesto Tortellini Bake with Mozzarella Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. Garnish each portion with a basil sprig and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a glossy, gourmet touch that wows at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Pesto Tortellini Bake with Mozzarella Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before storing to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this bake for up to 2 months. For best results, assemble the dish but don’t bake it before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. You can also microwave single portions, but baking helps restore that delightful cheesy melt and golden topping.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! A good-quality store-bought pesto works wonderfully in the Cheesy Pesto Tortellini Bake with Mozzarella Recipe and saves time. Just pick one that’s fresh and vibrant for the best flavor.

What kind of mozzarella is best for baking?

Low-moisture mozzarella is ideal because it melts beautifully and browns nicely. Fresh mozzarella can work but may release more liquid, making the bake a little wetter.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

You can try using half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese, but the texture and richness will change slightly. Heavy cream helps achieve that signature silky sauce in this recipe.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian since it features cheese tortellini and pesto. Just check to ensure the pesto doesn’t contain Parmesan made with animal rennet if strict vegetarianism is a concern.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cheese tortellini or dumplings as a substitute. Most other ingredients like pesto, cream, and cheese are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Cheesy Pesto Tortellini Bake with Mozzarella Recipe that warms the soul and brings friends and family together around the table. Its comforting layers of rich pesto cream and melty cheeses make every bite a celebration. I can’t recommend this dish enough—it’s a guaranteed winner that’s as fun to make as it is to devour. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love all over again with cheesy, herby, pasta-bake goodness.

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