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If you’re looking for a cozy, cheesy, and effortless dish to bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table, this Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake Recipe is absolutely the one to try. Imagine tender cheese tortellini mingling with vibrant broccoli, all roasted together with garlic and Italian herbs, then smothered in melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese that’s perfectly golden on top. It’s a one-pan wonder that feels like a warm hug in every bite, making weeknight dinners a delightful breeze without skimping on taste or comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients combine to create a balance of textures and flavors, from the soft and cheesy tortellini to the crisp-tender broccoli and the fragrant garlic-laced olive oil. Each element plays a crucial part in delivering that harmonious, irresistible taste.
- 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini: The star of the dish, soft and filled with creamy cheese for that signature comfort.
- 3 cups broccoli florets: Adds a fresh, slightly crunchy bite and a vibrant green hue that makes the dish pop.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Brings richness and helps everything roast to perfection with golden edges.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a punch of aromatic warmth that rounds out the flavor beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that perfectly infuses this dish with classic Italian charm.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the ingredients, bringing out their natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice to keep things interesting.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick, if you’re feeling adventurous!
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, dreamy blanket of cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Brings creaminess and helps everything meld together during baking.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A fresh drizzle at the end that brightens the whole dish with a hint of zing.
How to Make Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to a toasty 425°F and lightly grease a large rimmed sheet pan. This preps your workspace so every ingredient gets its moment to shine without sticking, setting the stage for a beautiful bake.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini exactly as the package directs, just until tender. Then drain thoroughly—overcooked tortellini won’t hold up as well in the bake, so aim for al dente to keep that lovely texture.
Step 3: Combine Tortellini and Broccoli
Place the cooked tortellini and broccoli florets right onto your prepared sheet pan. This straightforward step means less cleanup and maximum flavor mingling as the two ingredients roast together.
Step 4: Season and Toss
Drizzle olive oil over the tortellini and broccoli, then sprinkle with the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that every bite will be bursting with herby, garlicky richness.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Bake
Pour the heavy cream evenly over the mixture, which will help create a luscious, slightly saucy bake. Spread everything out in an even layer, then slide the pan into the oven to bake for 15 minutes. This step lets the broccoli soften just right and the flavors start to meld.
Step 6: Layer the Cheeses and Finish Baking
After the initial bake, pull out the sheet pan and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top. Return to the oven for another 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese bubbles joyfully and develops a gorgeous golden crust that’s irresistible.
Step 7: Final Touch and Rest
Once out of the oven, drizzle the lemon juice over the hot bake to add that fresh brightness. Let it rest for a few minutes—this allows the flavors to settle and the cheese to firm up just enough before serving.
How to Serve Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Take this dish up a notch by topping it with fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few chili flakes can also add beautiful color and an extra burst of flavor that guests will notice and appreciate.
Side Dishes
This bake is a satisfying main on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread for dipping in the cheesy sauce. Roasted cherry tomatoes or a bright citrusy slaw would also pair brilliantly to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this bake in individual ramekins pulled from the main sheet pan, making each portion feel special. Alternatively, a rustic wooden board with a scattering of herbs and lemon wedges invites everyone to dive in family-style, adding to the cozy, communal vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, so it tastes just as good, if not better, on day two!
Freezing
This Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake Recipe freezes beautifully. Just be sure to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or wrapping it tightly. It will keep well for up to 2 months, making for a perfect quick lunch or dinner later on.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven until piping hot and the cheese has regained its melty charm. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the texture and flavor at their best.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Just adjust the boiling time slightly and confirm they are fully cooked before adding to the sheet pan. Frozen tortellini can work just as well, making this recipe even more flexible.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use a plant-based cream substitute. The dish will still be flavorful and comforting with these adjustments.
How can I add protein to this bake?
Great question! Stir in cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or even crispy bacon bits before baking to bulk it up with some savory protein, turning it into an even heartier meal.
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Definitely, feel free to experiment with veggies like cauliflower, bell peppers, or spinach. Just keep in mind their cooking times so everything finishes perfectly together.
What if I don’t have heavy cream or half-and-half?
You can substitute with full-fat milk combined with a little extra cheese to mimic creaminess, or even plain yogurt stirred in off the heat for a tangy twist.
Final Thoughts
This Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake Recipe really is one of those dishes that feels like it was made just for cozy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want to serve something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s cheesy, easy, and packed with wholesome ingredients that bring everyone to the table with smiles. I hope you give it a try and find a new favorite that you’ll want to make again and again!
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Print
Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Delicious Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake is a simple, cheesy, and perfect Italian-inspired dish that combines tender cheese tortellini with fresh broccoli florets, aromatic garlic, and a blend of cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. It’s an easy, one-pan meal ideal for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly grease a large rimmed sheet pan to prevent sticking.
- Cook Tortellini: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package directions until just tender. Drain thoroughly to avoid excess water.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the cooked tortellini and broccoli florets on the prepared sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes over the top.
- Toss and Spread: Toss the mixture carefully to evenly coat everything in the seasonings and oil. Arrange the mixture in an even layer on the sheet pan.
- Add Cream and Bake: Pour the heavy cream or half-and-half evenly over the tortellini and broccoli. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Continue Baking: Remove the pan from the oven, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Finish and Serve: Take the bake out of the oven, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the cheese set slightly.
Notes
- For added protein and flavor, toss in cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or cherry tomatoes before baking.
- For a crispier cheese topping, place the bake under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.
