Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this incredibly simple yet utterly delicious Creamy Tortellini Pasta Bake. Imagine tender, cheese-filled tortellini luxuriating in a rich, velvety cream sauce, perfectly complemented by succulent pieces of savory rotisserie chicken and the vibrant freshness of spinach. Each forkful delivers a harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy goodness, subtly enhanced with aromatic garlic, and crowned with a generous, golden layer of gooey, melted mozzarella. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary hug in a casserole dish, designed for those busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary without spending hours in the kitchen. Best of all, this impressive dish comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for both a quick family dinner or entertaining guests with minimal fuss.
This Baked Tortellini Pasta with Chicken and Spinach is more than just a flavor-packed sensation; it’s a practical and intelligent choice for any bustling evening. Utilizing readily available ingredients and requiring less than an hour from your first chop to the final golden-brown bake, it offers a quick and effortless solution that never compromises on taste or quality. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting an impromptu gathering, or simply treating yourself to a delightful meal, this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Casserole is poised to become a cherished favorite in your home. Its versatility and widespread appeal ensure smiles around the dinner table every time.
Craving more cheesy pasta perfection? You’ll love my Cheese Tortellini Alfredo recipe for another quick and satisfying option!
Why You’ll Adore This Creamy Tortellini Bake
This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with an irresistible charm. Here’s why this Creamy Tortellini Bake will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:
- The Epitome of Comfort Food: If you’re seeking warmth and coziness in a bowl, look no further. This dish is generously loaded with rich heavy cream, savory Parmesan, and stretchy mozzarella cheese, creating an unparalleled creamy goodness that soothes the soul. It’s the perfect antidote to a long day, promising pure indulgence in every bite.
- Effortlessly Family-Friendly: A true champion at the dinner table, this pasta bake is universally loved by adults and children alike. Its mild yet flavorful profile ensures even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds. Plus, the recipe is incredibly forgiving and can be easily doubled to accommodate larger families, unexpected guests, or simply to ensure you have delicious leftovers.
- Remarkably Simple Preparation: Don’t let its gourmet taste fool you; this recipe is designed for ease. With just about 15 minutes of hands-on prep time and a straightforward 30-minute bake, you can assemble and serve this delightful meal without any culinary stress. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when time is precious but quality is non-negotiable.
- Customizable to Your Liking: While fantastic as is, this recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Easily swap proteins, add extra vegetables, or experiment with different cheeses to make it uniquely yours. It adapts beautifully to various dietary preferences and pantry staples.
- Quick & Satisfying: From start to finish, you’re looking at less than an hour, making it faster than many takeout options, and infinitely more satisfying. It’s a complete meal in one dish, minimizing cleanup and maximizing enjoyment.
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Tortellini Pasta
The beauty of this Creamy Tortellini Bake lies in its straightforward ingredients, many of which you likely already have on hand. Each component plays a vital role in creating that luscious, comforting flavor:
- Frozen Cheese Tortellini: The star of our show! Opting for frozen tortellini is a brilliant time-saver, eliminating the need for fresh pasta preparation. It cooks up beautifully, maintaining its delightful cheesy filling and tender texture. For a slightly different experience, shelf-stable or fresh tortellini can also be used; just be sure to adjust cooking times as per package instructions.
- Rich Cream Sauce Base: The heart of this dish is its irresistible sauce.
- Unsalted Butter: Forms the foundation of our roux, adding a rich, foundational flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce, creating a smooth and luscious consistency.
- Chicken Broth: Provides depth and savory notes, enhancing the overall flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, simply substitute with vegetable broth.
- Heavy Cream: The secret to that luxurious, velvety texture and decadent richness that truly defines this creamy pasta.
- Aromatic Seasonings:
- Salt and Ground Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the delicious flavors within the dish. Always taste and adjust to your preference.
- Minced Garlic: Infuses the sauce with a warm, savory aroma and an indispensable layer of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Savory Chicken: For ultimate convenience and flavor, chopped rotisserie chicken is highly recommended. It’s already cooked, seasoned, and wonderfully tender, cutting down your prep time significantly. However, feel free to cook and shred your own chicken breast or thighs if you prefer.
- Fresh Spinach: Chopped fresh spinach not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also a healthy dose of nutrients and a touch of earthy freshness, beautifully complementing the rich sauce. It wilts down perfectly into the hot pasta.
- Mozzarella Cheese: This is the crowning glory! Shredded mozzarella melts into a gooey, bubbly, golden-brown crust on top, providing an irresistible cheesy pull with every serving.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley just before serving adds a beautiful hint of fresh flavor and a vibrant green flourish. While optional, it truly enhances the presentation.
Crafting Your Creamy Tortellini Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this indulgent Creamy Tortellini Bake is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect, comforting meal every time:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures a beautiful, easy release of your baked pasta. Set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini to Perfection. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the frozen tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, aiming for an al dente texture. This is crucial as the tortellini will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Flavorful Roux. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt three tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and slightly shimmering, sprinkle in three tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about one minute until a smooth paste, or roux, forms. This step helps thicken our sauce beautifully.
Step 4: Infuse with Garlic. Add one teaspoon of minced garlic to the roux in the skillet. Sauté for another minute or two, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can turn bitter.
Step 5: Gradually Add Chicken Broth. Slowly pour in 1 ¼ cups of chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook for about three minutes, allowing the sauce to begin thickening slightly as it comes to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Introduce the Cream and Seasonings. Stir in 1 ¼ cups of heavy cream. Then, season the sauce with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Continue to whisk until everything is well combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Melt in the Parmesan. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the cheese to melt completely into the sauce, stirring for a couple of minutes until the sauce achieves a wonderfully rich and slightly thickened consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 8: Combine Tortellini, Spinach, and Chicken. Add the drained, cooked tortellini, two cups of chopped fresh spinach, and two cups of chopped rotisserie chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss all the ingredients gently until everything is thoroughly combined and the spinach begins to wilt into the warm sauce.
Step 9: Transfer and Top with Mozzarella. Carefully transfer the creamy tortellini mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, then generously top the entire casserole with 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. This will create a magnificent golden crust.
Step 10: Bake to Golden Perfection. Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown on top and around the edges. The sauce should also be gently bubbling.
Step 11: Garnish and Serve. Once the Creamy Tortellini Pasta Bake is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Chef’s Secrets for the Best Creamy Tortellini Bake
Elevate your Creamy Chicken Tortellini Casserole from great to extraordinary with these insightful tips:
- Cook Tortellini Al Dente: This is a golden rule for any baked pasta. Ensure your tortellini are cooked to a firm but tender al dente stage. They will absorb more liquid and soften further during the baking process. Overcooking them initially will result in a mushy texture after baking, which we want to avoid.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your cooked tortellini, scoop out about half a cup of the starchy pasta water. This liquid is incredibly useful! If your cream sauce seems a bit too thick after simmering, a tablespoon or two of this reserved water can help thin it out to the perfect consistency without diluting the flavor.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before combining it with the pasta and baking. This is your chance to fine-tune the flavors. Adjust with additional salt, pepper, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or even a touch more garlic powder if desired. Remember, salt levels in broths and cheeses can vary.
- Garnish Creatively: While fresh parsley adds a wonderful touch, don’t limit yourself! A final sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a swirl of extra virgin olive oil, or even a few basil leaves can significantly enhance both the flavor and visual appeal of your finished dish.
- Don’t Rush the Roux: The flour and butter mixture (roux) needs about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Whisk constantly during this time. A properly cooked roux contributes to a smooth, delicious sauce without a raw flour aftertaste.
- Use a Quality Cheese: For the best melting and flavor, opt for a good quality block of mozzarella and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melt and texture.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Creamy Tortellini Bake
This rich and satisfying Creamy Tortellini Bake with Chicken and Spinach is a complete meal on its own, offering protein, carbs, and vegetables. However, complementing it with a few simple sides can elevate the dining experience to new heights, creating a truly balanced and memorable feast.
For the quintessential comfort food experience, pair this creamy pasta with something that offers a delightful contrast in texture. A chunk of warm, crusty bread is an absolute must for soaking up every last bit of that luscious sauce. My Homemade Roasted Garlic Bread would be an exquisite choice, adding another layer of aromatic flavor. Alternatively, a simple baguette toasted with butter and herbs works beautifully.
To cut through the richness and add a refreshing element, a crisp, vibrant salad is ideal. A light House Salad Recipe with a tangy vinaigrette, or a simple mixed green salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon-herb dressing, would provide a delightful counterpoint. The fresh crunch and bright flavors offer a wonderful balance to the creamy pasta.
For additional vegetable goodness, consider serving roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or broccoli florets. These simple sides add color, nutrients, and a touch of earthiness without overpowering the main dish. A glass of crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, would also pair wonderfully with the creamy, cheesy flavors.
Storing and Reheating Your Creamy Tortellini Pasta
One of the many benefits of this Creamy Tortellini Bake is how well it stores, making it fantastic for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:
Refrigeration: Any leftover Creamy Tortellini Pasta should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. It will maintain its deliciousness for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing and refrigerating to prevent condensation.
Reheating: For best results, gently reheat individual portions. You can do this on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
Freezing: This dish is also freezer-friendly, especially if prepared as a make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire casserole up to the point of baking. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil (and then plastic wrap for extra protection against freezer burn) and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake as directed in the recipe. Keep in mind that freezing creamy sauces can sometimes lead to a slight change in texture upon thawing, but it will still be incredibly flavorful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tortellini Bake
Absolutely! To adapt this Creamy Tortellini Bake for vegetarians, simply swap the chicken broth for a high-quality vegetable broth. The rotisserie chicken can be omitted entirely, or you can replace it with sautéed mushrooms, canned chickpeas, or even a plant-based chicken substitute for added texture and protein.
Yes, fresh tortellini works wonderfully in this recipe! You can substitute fresh tortellini for frozen with great results. Just be sure to adjust the initial cooking time according to the package instructions for the fresh tortellini, as it typically cooks much faster. Cook it al dente before adding it to the sauce.
While this dish is undoubtedly best enjoyed freshly baked, you can certainly prepare components in advance. The creamy sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed, before tossing with freshly cooked tortellini and then assembling and baking. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the casserole (without baking) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake as directed, potentially adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
No problem! You can easily cook your own chicken. Simply poach, boil, or bake two chicken breasts or thighs, then shred or dice them. Season with a little salt, pepper, and garlic powder for similar flavor. Leftover cooked chicken from another meal also works perfectly here.
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or even some frozen peas (stirred in at the end) to boost the flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of moisture content if adding a lot of extra veggies.
Explore More Irresistible Cheesy Pasta Recipes
- Boursin Cheese Pasta
- Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
- Creamy Chicken Tortellini Pasta
- Four Cheese Pasta
- Four Cheese Ravioli Pasta
- Italian Pastina Pasta
This Creamy Tortellini Pasta Bake, featuring tender, cheese-filled tortellini enrobed in a rich and velvety cream sauce, melded with fresh chopped spinach and succulent chunks of chicken, is an absolute delight that’s sure to win over pasta lovers of all ages. Its straightforward preparation, coupled with easily customizable ingredients, solidifies its status as a go-to recipe—whether you’re navigating the demands of a busy weeknight or planning a relaxed family dinner. It’s a dish that promises both culinary satisfaction and heartwarming comfort, making every meal a special occasion.
If you’ve had the pleasure of trying this recipe or any other culinary creations from my collection, I would be absolutely thrilled to hear from you! Please consider leaving a star rating and sharing your thoughts in the comment section below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps others discover delicious meals. Additionally, for all my latest culinary adventures, social posts, and exciting new recipes, make sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest.
Creamy Tortellini Bake
By: Mariam Ezzeddine
Creamy Tortellini Bake is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines cheese-filled tortellini with tender rotisserie chicken and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 16 oz cheese tortellini, frozen
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- ½ cup parmesan cheese
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken
- 1 ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (to garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil and set it aside.
- Cook the frozen tortellini in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and cook for a minute, whisking to form a roux.
- Add minced garlic and cook for a couple more minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth and cook for 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Pour in the heavy cream, then add salt and pepper, stirring to combine.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly and the cheese is melted.
- Add the cooked tortellini, spinach, and chicken to the skillet, tossing until well combined and the spinach wilts.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with an even layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and golden on the sides.
- Once done, garnish the creamy tortellini with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Recipe Notes
- Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Ensure the tortellini are cooked al dente, retaining a slight firmness when bitten into. Overcooking may lead to a mushy texture post-baking.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the cooked tortellini, reserve some of the pasta cooking water to thin out the sauce if needed.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or additional herbs.
- Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle the finished dish with chopped fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.
Nutrition
- Calories: 815 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 52g
- Fat: 58g
- Saturated Fat: 32g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Cholesterol: 264mg
- Sodium: 1352mg
- Potassium: 318mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 3292 IU
- Vitamin C: 8mg
- Calcium: 431mg
- Iron: 2mg