Name: Pesto Tortellini Bake with Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cheese tortellini; 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 cup pesto sauce; 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded); 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper (to taste); Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make pasta dish, look no further than this Pesto Tortellini Bake with Cherry Tomatoes. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that combines cheesy, saucy, and fresh elements all in one baked dish. Using tender cheese tortellini, bright cherry tomatoes, and vibrant pesto sauce, this bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something delicious with minimal fuss.

Why It Works Every Time

This Pesto Tortellini Bake with Cherry Tomatoes hits all the right notes. The tortellini provides a hearty, pillow-like texture that holds up beautifully in the oven. Tossing it with pesto sauce infuses the dish with aromatic basil and garlic flavors, while the cherry tomatoes add a juicy burst of sweetness that balances the richness. Melting mozzarella and Parmesan on top creates a golden, bubbly crust that’s utterly irresistible. The olive oil helps everything meld together, ensuring the bake stays moist without being greasy. Simple seasoning with salt and pepper lets the fresh ingredients shine, and a garnish of fresh basil leaves amps up the visual appeal and flavor. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that never disappoints.

Ingredient Breakdown

2 cups cheese tortellini: The star of the dish, cheese tortellini offers a creamy filling encased in tender pasta, providing both comfort and substance.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These add a pop of color and a juicy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory pesto and cheese.
1 cup pesto sauce: Made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil, pesto delivers a vibrant, herbaceous depth that brings the whole dish to life.
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Mozzarella melts into a gooey, stringy layer that adds luscious texture and mild creaminess.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a sharp, salty bite that complements the mozzarella and pesto perfectly.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to lightly coat the ingredients, olive oil adds richness and helps everything bake evenly.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the natural sweetness and savoriness of the dish.
Fresh basil leaves for garnish: A fresh herbaceous finish that brightens the dish and elevates its presentation.

Tools of the Trade

Baking dish: A 9×9-inch or similar size oven-safe dish works best for even baking and easy serving.
Mixing bowl: To toss the tortellini, pesto, and tomatoes together before baking.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient portions to get the flavors just right.
Sharp knife: To halve the cherry tomatoes quickly and evenly.
Grater: For shredding mozzarella and grating Parmesan fresh, which melts better and tastes fresher.
Oven mitts: To safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Cooking Pesto Tortellini Bake with Cherry Tomatoes: The Process

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms, halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and shred your mozzarella cheese if it’s not pre-shredded. This prep makes assembling the bake quick and easy.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes until tender but still slightly firm. Drain the tortellini and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

To the warm tortellini, add 1 cup of pesto sauce, halved cherry tomatoes, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that both pesto and cheese add saltiness.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the tortellini mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, followed by 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This layering creates a beautifully golden and bubbly cheesy crust once baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown. The cherry tomatoes will soften and release their juices, melding into the pesto sauce for a luscious finish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the bake from the oven carefully using oven mitts. Let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm and watch it disappear fast!

Smart Substitutions

Tortellini: Swap cheese tortellini for spinach or mushroom tortellini for a different flavor profile.
Pesto sauce: Use sun-dried tomato pesto or kale pesto for a unique twist.
Mozzarella cheese: Try provolone or fontina for a slightly different melt and flavor.
Cherry tomatoes: Substitute grape tomatoes or diced roasted red peppers for a different texture and sweetness.
Parmesan cheese: Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option that still provides a cheesy flavor.

Pro Perspective

For an extra layer of flavor, some chefs like to toast pine nuts and sprinkle them on top just before serving for crunch and a nutty aroma. Also, consider stirring in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta into the pesto mixture before baking to make the sauce even richer and creamier.

If you’re a fan of roasted veggies, try adding zucchini or bell peppers to the mix before baking to boost the nutritional value and add more color.

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or Caprese Tortellini Skillet for those looking to explore more ways to enjoy tortellini with fresh ingredients.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Freeze: This bake freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Best served fresh: While leftovers are delicious, the texture and flavor are always best the day of baking.

Reader Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the Pesto Tortellini Bake with Cherry Tomatoes a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

Is it possible to make this vegan?

Yes! Use vegan tortellini, dairy-free pesto, and substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor punch as well.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely. Grilled chicken, cooked Italian sausage, or even chickpeas can be stirred into the tortellini mixture before baking to increase the protein content and make it more filling.

What’s the best way to prevent the bake from drying out?

Make sure to toss the tortellini well with pesto and olive oil so everything is coated. Also, covering the dish with foil for the first half of baking can help retain moisture before uncovering to brown the cheese.

Explore More

Caprese Tortellini Skillet – A fresh and flavorful skillet meal featuring tortellini and classic Caprese ingredients.
Creamy Pesto Tomato Orzo Soup – A comforting, creamy soup with a pesto twist, perfect for cozy nights.
Roasted Vegetable Pasta – A vibrant pasta dish loaded with roasted veggies and fresh herbs.
Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks – The perfect side to accompany any pasta bake for extra indulgence.

Bring It Home

This Pesto Tortellini Bake with Cherry Tomatoes is a true weeknight winner—simple yet packed with flavor and texture. It’s a versatile dish you can easily customize with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. The fresh basil garnish at the end adds a lovely aromatic touch that makes this dish feel special. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this bake is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Serve it with a crisp salad or crusty bread, and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is effortless.

From the tender cheese tortellini to the vibrant cherry tomatoes and rich pesto sauce, this baked pasta dish is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients coming together beautifully. So next time you want a comforting, cheesy casserole with a fresh twist, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!

Share on Pinterest