Whether you’re looking to feed a hungry family or impress your friends at a casual dinner, this dish offers flexibility and flavor in every bite. The blend of roasted vegetables, tangy Mediterranean ingredients, and melty cheese hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s easy to prep ahead of time and even easier to clean up. This recipe will not only simplify your evenings but also satisfy your cravings for something hearty yet nutritious.
This recipe is the perfect marriage of convenience and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. It starts with store-bought tortellini—cheese or spinach-filled—that forms the hearty base of the dish. Add to that a mix of colorful vegetables, classic seasonings like garlic, oregano, and olive oil, and a generous sprinkling of melty cheese, and you’ve got yourself a comfort meal that’s also packed with nutrients.
The Mediterranean twist elevates the dish from a basic pasta bake to something special. Ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese lend brightness and complexity, while the customizable veggie options mean it can work for picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike. Plus, it’s all baked together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. The result? A meal that feels indulgent but is packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein, perfect for weeknight dinners or even potlucks.
Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful Mediterranean Tortellini Bake. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry:
For the Main Dish:
For Serving:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This step ensures an even bake and makes cleanup even simpler.
While the oven is heating, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. If you’re using fresh tortellini, this should only take a few minutes. Be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your bake. Slightly undercook the tortellini if you prefer firmer pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. This step ensures that the veggies are well-seasoned and flavorful. If you’re feeling adventurous, roast the veggies for 10 minutes in the oven beforehand to deepen their flavors.
In your prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce to coat the bottom. Add the cooked tortellini, followed by the seasoned vegetables. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top and gently toss everything to combine. Make sure the sauce evenly coats the tortellini and veggies for a well-distributed flavor in every bite.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and crumbled feta over the top of the dish. These cheeses will melt and create a gooey, golden crust that ties the whole bake together. You can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra richness and a slight nutty flavor.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden crust, switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes—but keep a close eye to avoid burning. The bubbling cheese will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley or basil. Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a final touch.
The best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
If you want to add some protein, consider:
While marinara is classic, you can switch it up with:
Swap the tortellini for gluten-free pasta or gnocchi, and ensure your sauces and cheeses are gluten-free.
For those who like a bit of heat, add extra red pepper flakes or drizzle on some chili oil before serving.
Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, it’s best to undercook it slightly during the initial boiling step. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
Too much liquid can make the dish soggy. Be sure to drain the tortellini and any excess liquid from the vegetables before assembling the bake.
It is possible to assemble this dish up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
This bake is freezer-friendly! Place it in a freezer-friendly container, seal it securely, and store in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake straight from frozen, adding about 15 minutes to the cooking time.
Pairings to Complete the Meal
A Mediterranean Tortellini Bake is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a few sides can elevate your dinner game. Here are some ideas:
The Easy Mediterranean Tortellini Bake is proof that weeknight meals don’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With its vibrant flavors, hearty tortellini, and endless customization options, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, experimenting with new ingredients, or simply looking for a low-effort, high-reward dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes. Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean right at your dining table.
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh. Just follow the package instructions for cooking and slightly undercook them since they’ll continue to bake in the oven.
You can experiment with provolone, Parmesan, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for a tangy twist. For a creamier bake, mix in some ricotta.
Ensure you drain the tortellini well after boiling and avoid using overly watery vegetables. Roasting the vegetables beforehand can also help reduce moisture.
It’s already vegetarian, but for a vegan option, use plant-based tortellini, swap the cheese for dairy-free alternatives, and check that your marinara sauce is vegan-friendly.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Yes! Put the dish together up to 24 hours in advance, then store it in the fridge until it’s time to bake.When ready to cook, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled dish.
Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container without baking it. Wrap it securely with foil and freeze for as long as three months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen at 375°F, adding about 15 minutes to the cooking time.
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