FREE DINNER EBOOK! Get your copy!

Creamy Pesto Tortellini Bake Flavorful and Easy Dish

by on November 23, 2025

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Craving a quick and delicious meal? My Creamy Pesto Tortellini Bake is the answer! This easy dish combines cheesy tortellini, rich pesto, and a touch of cream for a tasty twist. Plus, it’s packed with vibrant cherry tomatoes and topped with ooey-gooey mozzarella. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for meal prep ideas, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive into the simple steps to make your kitchen smell divine!

- Cheese Tortellini: You need 12 oz of cheese tortellini. You can use fresh or frozen. - Pesto Sauce: Use 1 cup of pesto. Homemade works great, but store-bought is fine too. - Heavy Cream: One cup of heavy cream adds richness and creaminess. - Cherry Tomatoes: Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color. - Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: One cup of shredded mozzarella cheese gives a gooey texture. - Grated Parmesan Cheese: Use ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a salty kick. - Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic bring aroma and depth to the dish. - Olive Oil: One tablespoon of olive oil helps sauté the garlic. - Fresh Basil Leaves: Use fresh basil leaves for a fragrant and bright garnish. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). - Grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil. - Boil water in a large pot. - Add 12 oz of cheese tortellini. - Cook according to package instructions. - Drain the tortellini and set aside. - Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. - Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. - Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of pesto sauce. - Stir gently to mix, cooking for 2-3 minutes until heated through. - Add the cooked tortellini and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. - Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. - Transfer the tortellini mixture into the greased baking dish. - Top with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. - Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. - Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. - Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Perfecting Tortellini Texture Cook the tortellini until al dente. This keeps them firm during baking. Follow the package instructions for the best results. Fresh tortellini usually takes less time than frozen. Drain them well to avoid a watery bake. Adjusting Sauce Consistency If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth. Stir it in slowly until it reaches the desired creaminess. For a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer. This helps the flavors meld nicely. Garnishing with Basil Fresh basil adds a pop of color and flavor. Tear the leaves and sprinkle them on top just before serving. This makes your dish look restaurant-quality and tastes great too! Serving Suggestions Serve this bake with a side salad for a full meal. Garlic bread pairs well and soaks up the creamy sauce. You can also offer a sprinkle of extra cheese at the table for those who love it. Adding Additional Vegetables Consider adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the garlic for added flavor. This boosts nutrition and adds color to your dish. Spice Variations If you like heat, try adding red pepper flakes. Mix them into the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also use Italian seasoning for extra flavor without the heat. Pro Tips Use Fresh Pesto: For the best flavor, opt for fresh homemade pesto instead of store-bought. It elevates the dish with vibrant taste and aroma. Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Make sure to cook the tortellini just until al dente. It will continue to cook while baking, ensuring a perfect texture. Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to mix in additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Let It Rest: After baking, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes for easier serving. {{image_2}} Gluten-Free Options You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Use gluten-free tortellini instead of regular ones. Many stores offer good brands. Check the package for cooking times, as they may vary. Dairy-Free Alternatives For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream with coconut cream. Use dairy-free cheese for the topping. There are great options made from nuts or soy. Alternative Pesto Options If you want a different taste, try sun-dried tomato pesto. It adds a rich flavor. You can also use spinach or arugula instead of basil for a fresh twist. Cheese Substitutes Need a cheese swap? Use nutritional yeast for a savory flavor. It’s great for a dairy-free option. You could also try vegan mozzarella if you need a meltable cheese. Adding Protein (Chicken, Shrimp) Want to boost the protein? Add cooked chicken or shrimp. Just toss them in when mixing the tortellini and sauce. They will add a nice texture and flavor. Spicy Versions (Red Pepper Flakes) If you like heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Start with a pinch and adjust to your taste. This adds a nice kick to the creamy dish. Refrigeration Guidelines After you enjoy your creamy pesto tortellini bake, store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing. Freezing Instructions If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it! Just place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Oven vs. Microwave For the best taste and texture, reheat in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes. If you use a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst to heat evenly. Tips for Retaining Texture To keep the creamy texture, add a splash of cream or milk when reheating. This helps prevent it from drying out. Covering the dish with foil in the oven also helps keep moisture in. How Long it Lasts In the fridge, your creamy pesto tortellini bake will stay good for about three days. In the freezer, it can last up to three months. Signs of Spoilage Before eating, always check for changes. If you see mold or notice an off smell, it’s best to discard it. Trust your senses; they will guide you. Cooking tortellini takes about 2 to 4 minutes for fresh tortellini. For frozen tortellini, it takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Always check the package for exact times. Fresh tortellini cooks faster and has a softer texture. Frozen tortellini is convenient but can be slightly chewier. Yes, you can make Creamy Pesto Tortellini Bake a day ahead. Prepare the dish up to the baking step. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and pop it in the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You can create a vegan version easily. Use vegan tortellini or make your own from scratch. Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. Choose a dairy-free pesto and replace mozzarella and Parmesan with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. This version stays creamy and tasty. This blog post covered how to make a creamy pesto tortellini bake. We explored the main and additional ingredients, along with seasoning and garnishing options. The step-by-step instructions made it easy to follow, from cooking the tortellini to baking the dish. I shared tips to enhance flavor and presentation, and offered variations for dietary needs. In closing, this dish is simple and tasty. With a few tweaks, it can fit any diet. Enjoy cooking and sharing this meal with others!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy to Make: This recipe is quick and simple, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
  2. Creamy and Delicious: The combination of heavy cream and pesto creates a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with tortellini.
  3. Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or proteins to the dish, making it versatile for any taste preference.
  4. Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and delightful flavors, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– Cheese Tortellini: You need 12 oz of cheese tortellini. You can use fresh or frozen.

– Pesto Sauce: Use 1 cup of pesto. Homemade works great, but store-bought is fine too.

– Heavy Cream: One cup of heavy cream adds richness and creaminess.

Additional Ingredients

– Cherry Tomatoes: Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color.

– Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: One cup of shredded mozzarella cheese gives a gooey texture.

– Grated Parmesan Cheese: Use ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a salty kick.

Seasoning and Garnish

– Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic bring aroma and depth to the dish.

– Olive Oil: One tablespoon of olive oil helps sauté the garlic.

– Fresh Basil Leaves: Use fresh basil leaves for a fragrant and bright garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

– Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

– Grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil.

Cook the Tortellini

– Boil water in a large pot.

– Add 12 oz of cheese tortellini.

– Cook according to package instructions.

– Drain the tortellini and set aside.

Combine the Ingredients

– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

– Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

– Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of pesto sauce.

– Stir gently to mix, cooking for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

– Add the cooked tortellini and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes.

– Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble and Bake

– Transfer the tortellini mixture into the greased baking dish.

– Top with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

– Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

– Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.

– Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

Perfecting Tortellini Texture

Cook the tortellini until al dente. This keeps them firm during baking. Follow the package instructions for the best results. Fresh tortellini usually takes less time than frozen. Drain them well to avoid a watery bake.

Adjusting Sauce Consistency

If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth. Stir it in slowly until it reaches the desired creaminess. For a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer. This helps the flavors meld nicely.

Presentation Tips

Garnishing with Basil

Fresh basil adds a pop of color and flavor. Tear the leaves and sprinkle them on top just before serving. This makes your dish look restaurant-quality and tastes great too!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bake with a side salad for a full meal. Garlic bread pairs well and soaks up the creamy sauce. You can also offer a sprinkle of extra cheese at the table for those who love it.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding Additional Vegetables

Consider adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the garlic for added flavor. This boosts nutrition and adds color to your dish.

Spice Variations

If you like heat, try adding red pepper flakes. Mix them into the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also use Italian seasoning for extra flavor without the heat.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Pesto: For the best flavor, opt for fresh homemade pesto instead of store-bought. It elevates the dish with vibrant taste and aroma.
  2. Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Make sure to cook the tortellini just until al dente. It will continue to cook while baking, ensuring a perfect texture.
  3. Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to mix in additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
  4. Let It Rest: After baking, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes for easier serving.

Variations

Dietary Adjustments

Gluten-Free Options

You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Use gluten-free tortellini instead of regular ones. Many stores offer good brands. Check the package for cooking times, as they may vary.

Dairy-Free Alternatives

For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream with coconut cream. Use dairy-free cheese for the topping. There are great options made from nuts or soy.

Ingredient Substitutes

Alternative Pesto Options

If you want a different taste, try sun-dried tomato pesto. It adds a rich flavor. You can also use spinach or arugula instead of basil for a fresh twist.

Cheese Substitutes

Need a cheese swap? Use nutritional yeast for a savory flavor. It’s great for a dairy-free option. You could also try vegan mozzarella if you need a meltable cheese.

Flavor Variations

Adding Protein (Chicken, Shrimp)

Want to boost the protein? Add cooked chicken or shrimp. Just toss them in when mixing the tortellini and sauce. They will add a nice texture and flavor.

Spicy Versions (Red Pepper Flakes)

If you like heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Start with a pinch and adjust to your taste. This adds a nice kick to the creamy dish.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

Refrigeration Guidelines

After you enjoy your creamy pesto tortellini bake, store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it! Just place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Methods

Oven vs. Microwave

For the best taste and texture, reheat in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes. If you use a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst to heat evenly.

Tips for Retaining Texture

To keep the creamy texture, add a splash of cream or milk when reheating. This helps prevent it from drying out. Covering the dish with foil in the oven also helps keep moisture in.

Shelf Life

How Long it Lasts

In the fridge, your creamy pesto tortellini bake will stay good for about three days. In the freezer, it can last up to three months.

Signs of Spoilage

Before eating, always check for changes. If you see mold or notice an off smell, it’s best to discard it. Trust your senses; they will guide you.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook tortellini?

Cooking tortellini takes about 2 to 4 minutes for fresh tortellini. For frozen tortellini, it takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Always check the package for exact times. Fresh tortellini cooks faster and has a softer texture. Frozen tortellini is convenient but can be slightly chewier.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can make Creamy Pesto Tortellini Bake a day ahead. Prepare the dish up to the baking step. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and pop it in the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Is there a vegan version of Creamy Pesto Tortellini Bake?

You can create a vegan version easily. Use vegan tortellini or make your own from scratch. Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. Choose a dairy-free pesto and replace mozzarella and Parmesan with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. This version stays creamy and tasty.

This blog post covered how to make a creamy pesto tortellini bake. We explored the main and additional ingredients, along with seasoning and garnishing options. The step-by-step instructions made it easy to follow, from cooking the tortellini to baking the dish. I shared tips to enhance flavor and presentation, and offered variations for dietary needs.

In closing, this dish is simple and tasty. With a few tweaks, it can fit any diet. Enjoy cooking and sharing this meal with other

- Cheese Tortellini: You need 12 oz of cheese tortellini. You can use fresh or frozen. - Pesto Sauce: Use 1 cup of pesto. Homemade works great, but store-bought is fine too. - Heavy Cream: One cup of heavy cream adds richness and creaminess. - Cherry Tomatoes: Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color. - Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: One cup of shredded mozzarella cheese gives a gooey texture. - Grated Parmesan Cheese: Use ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a salty kick. - Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic bring aroma and depth to the dish. - Olive Oil: One tablespoon of olive oil helps sauté the garlic. - Fresh Basil Leaves: Use fresh basil leaves for a fragrant and bright garnish. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). - Grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil. - Boil water in a large pot. - Add 12 oz of cheese tortellini. - Cook according to package instructions. - Drain the tortellini and set aside. - Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. - Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. - Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of pesto sauce. - Stir gently to mix, cooking for 2-3 minutes until heated through. - Add the cooked tortellini and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. - Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. - Transfer the tortellini mixture into the greased baking dish. - Top with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. - Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. - Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. - Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Perfecting Tortellini Texture Cook the tortellini until al dente. This keeps them firm during baking. Follow the package instructions for the best results. Fresh tortellini usually takes less time than frozen. Drain them well to avoid a watery bake. Adjusting Sauce Consistency If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth. Stir it in slowly until it reaches the desired creaminess. For a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer. This helps the flavors meld nicely. Garnishing with Basil Fresh basil adds a pop of color and flavor. Tear the leaves and sprinkle them on top just before serving. This makes your dish look restaurant-quality and tastes great too! Serving Suggestions Serve this bake with a side salad for a full meal. Garlic bread pairs well and soaks up the creamy sauce. You can also offer a sprinkle of extra cheese at the table for those who love it. Adding Additional Vegetables Consider adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the garlic for added flavor. This boosts nutrition and adds color to your dish. Spice Variations If you like heat, try adding red pepper flakes. Mix them into the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also use Italian seasoning for extra flavor without the heat. Pro Tips Use Fresh Pesto: For the best flavor, opt for fresh homemade pesto instead of store-bought. It elevates the dish with vibrant taste and aroma. Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Make sure to cook the tortellini just until al dente. It will continue to cook while baking, ensuring a perfect texture. Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to mix in additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Let It Rest: After baking, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes for easier serving. {{image_2}} Gluten-Free Options You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Use gluten-free tortellini instead of regular ones. Many stores offer good brands. Check the package for cooking times, as they may vary. Dairy-Free Alternatives For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream with coconut cream. Use dairy-free cheese for the topping. There are great options made from nuts or soy. Alternative Pesto Options If you want a different taste, try sun-dried tomato pesto. It adds a rich flavor. You can also use spinach or arugula instead of basil for a fresh twist. Cheese Substitutes Need a cheese swap? Use nutritional yeast for a savory flavor. It’s great for a dairy-free option. You could also try vegan mozzarella if you need a meltable cheese. Adding Protein (Chicken, Shrimp) Want to boost the protein? Add cooked chicken or shrimp. Just toss them in when mixing the tortellini and sauce. They will add a nice texture and flavor. Spicy Versions (Red Pepper Flakes) If you like heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Start with a pinch and adjust to your taste. This adds a nice kick to the creamy dish. Refrigeration Guidelines After you enjoy your creamy pesto tortellini bake, store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing. Freezing Instructions If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it! Just place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Oven vs. Microwave For the best taste and texture, reheat in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes. If you use a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst to heat evenly. Tips for Retaining Texture To keep the creamy texture, add a splash of cream or milk when reheating. This helps prevent it from drying out. Covering the dish with foil in the oven also helps keep moisture in. How Long it Lasts In the fridge, your creamy pesto tortellini bake will stay good for about three days. In the freezer, it can last up to three months. Signs of Spoilage Before eating, always check for changes. If you see mold or notice an off smell, it’s best to discard it. Trust your senses; they will guide you. Cooking tortellini takes about 2 to 4 minutes for fresh tortellini. For frozen tortellini, it takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Always check the package for exact times. Fresh tortellini cooks faster and has a softer texture. Frozen tortellini is convenient but can be slightly chewier. Yes, you can make Creamy Pesto Tortellini Bake a day ahead. Prepare the dish up to the baking step. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and pop it in the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You can create a vegan version easily. Use vegan tortellini or make your own from scratch. Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. Choose a dairy-free pesto and replace mozzarella and Parmesan with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. This version stays creamy and tasty. This blog post covered how to make a creamy pesto tortellini bake. We explored the main and additional ingredients, along with seasoning and garnishing options. The step-by-step instructions made it easy to follow, from cooking the tortellini to baking the dish. I shared tips to enhance flavor and presentation, and offered variations for dietary needs. In closing, this dish is simple and tasty. With a few tweaks, it can fit any diet. Enjoy cooking and sharing this meal with others!

Creamy Pesto Tortellini Bake

A delicious and creamy baked tortellini dish with pesto, cheese, and cherry tomatoes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • for garnish Fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil.
  • Cook the tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, then pour in the heavy cream and add the pesto. Stir gently to combine, letting it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  • Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Transfer the tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Let cool for a few minutes before serving and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Keyword bake, cheesy, pasta, pesto, tortellini

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?