Description

Creamy Broccoli Tortellini Bake is the perfect blend of comfort food and convenience, offering a cheesy, satisfying meal that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This dish combines tender, cheese-filled tortellini with fresh broccoli florets, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce that bakes to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a small gathering, this baked pasta dish is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients List (with measurements)

Here’s what you’ll need to make Creamy Broccoli Tortellini Bake:

16 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
4 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, follow these steps to make Creamy Broccoli Tortellini Bake:

Cook the tortellini and broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain the tortellini and broccoli together in a colander and set aside.
Make the cream sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk or half-and-half, continuing to whisk until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes.
Add the cheese and seasonings: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and nutmeg (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Assemble the bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini and broccoli with the cream sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
Add the topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. If using, mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle them over the cheese for a crispy topping.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before garnishing with chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

Notes on Variations

If you’d like to experiment with different flavors or ingredients, consider these variations:

Add Protein: Mix in cooked, diced chicken, sausage, or shrimp to make the dish heartier.
Use Different Tortellini: Swap out the cheese tortellini for spinach or meat-filled tortellini to add different flavors and textures.
Incorporate More Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas to the casserole for extra nutrients and variety.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini and a gluten-free flour blend in the sauce to accommodate dietary restrictions.