Baked Tortellini Alfredo with Spinach and Bacon: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Dish

This Baked Tortellini Alfredo with Spinach and Bacon is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Picture this: tender cheese-filled tortellini coated in a creamy Alfredo sauce, combined with fresh sautéed spinach and crispy bacon, and topped with golden, bubbling mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for a cozy family dinner or special occasion.

With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is easy to whip up on a busy weeknight while still feeling like a gourmet treat. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this delicious baked pasta dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Cheesy: Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan combine to create a decadent, cheesy casserole.
2. Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The crispy, smoky bacon and fresh, wilted spinach add depth and freshness to every bite.
3. Quick and Easy: Made with store-bought tortellini and Alfredo sauce, it comes together in just 30 minutes.
4. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, bacon-packed goodness.
5. Customizable: Easily adapt with different add-ins like veggies or proteins to make it your own.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

For the Base:

• 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen): These little pasta pillows are the perfect base for this dish. Fresh tortellini will cook faster, but frozen works just as well.
• 2 cups fresh spinach, wilted: Adds a pop of color and nutrients to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

For the Sauce and Cheesy Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups Alfredo sauce: Store-bought saves time, but homemade Alfredo sauce will make the dish extra special.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully into a gooey, golden topping.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty kick that complements the Alfredo sauce.

For the Bacon and Flavor Boosts:

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds smoky, crispy texture and flavor to the dish.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the spinach.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavors.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (usually 2-4 minutes for fresh, or 8-10 minutes for frozen).
3. Drain the tortellini and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Spinach

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until wilted.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Mix the Pasta Bake

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, sautéed spinach, Alfredo sauce, and half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
2. Toss everything together until the tortellini is evenly coated and the ingredients are well mixed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top.
3. Add the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses to create a cheesy topping.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. For a golden, crispy topping, broil the casserole on high for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with extra bacon bits, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
3. Serve hot, paired with garlic bread and a crisp side salad for a complete meal.

Chef Tips for Success

1. Cook the Tortellini Al Dente: The tortellini will continue to cook in the oven, so undercooking slightly prevents it from becoming mushy.
2. Drain the Spinach Well: After sautéing, pat the spinach dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and keep the dish from becoming watery.
3. Mix Cheese into the Sauce: Adding some of the mozzarella and Parmesan directly into the tortellini mixture ensures a gooey, cheesy texture throughout the dish.
4. Customize the Alfredo Sauce: Add a pinch of garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or Italian seasoning to the Alfredo sauce for extra flavor.
5. Use Fresh Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy and crumble it just before adding it to the dish for the best texture and flavor.

Customizations and Variations

This dish is versatile and easy to adapt to your preferences. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Add More Veggies:

• Stir in sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or steamed broccoli for additional flavor and nutrients.
• Toss in cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color.

Protein Options:

• Swap bacon for diced cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Use turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative for a lighter option.

Cheese Variations:

• Substitute mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add a sprinkle of Gruyère for a nutty, creamy twist.

Make It Spicy:

• Add a dash of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Low-Carb Option:

• Use cauliflower gnocchi or spiralized zucchini instead of tortellini for a lower-carb version.

What to Serve with Baked Tortellini Alfredo

This rich and cheesy dish pairs perfectly with light and fresh sides to balance the meal. Here are some serving ideas:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Crisp Side Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the bake.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for added color and nutrients.
• Soup Starter: Begin your meal with a light soup, like tomato basil or minestrone, for a hearty, comforting dinner.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s an estimate for one serving of Baked Tortellini Alfredo (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 460
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and bake as directed.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole (before baking), cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! If you don’t have tortellini, use ravioli, gnocchi, or even penne for a similar dish.

5. Can I make it dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free Alfredo sauce and cheese alternatives to create a plant-based version of this recipe.

Conclusion

This Baked Tortellini Alfredo with Spinach and Bacon is the ultimate creamy, cheesy comfort dish. Packed with layers of flavor and simple ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to customize for your family’s tastes. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a special occasion, this tortellini bake is sure to impress. Pair it with your favorite sides, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy every indulgent bite! 🍝🥓🧀

 

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