Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the comforting taste of cheesy tortellini with vibrant broccoli and savory chicken sausage. This one-pan recipe not only makes for easy cleanup but also ensures you can enjoy a dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for busy weeknights, this bake offers a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 550
- Protein: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make This Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
Making Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake not only provides a delicious and colorful meal but also incorporates wholesome ingredients. The combination of fresh broccoli and chicken sausage means you’re serving up veggies and protein in one dish, making it a balanced choice for dinner. Plus, it’s a huge time-saver; everything cooks together on one sheet, meaning less time in the kitchen and more time with family. The crispy edges of cheese and the tender tortellini create a wonderfully contrasting texture, ensuring that every bite is both satisfying and delightful.
How to Make Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs fresh broccoli (cut into 1.5-inch uniform florets)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 11 oz chicken sausage (sliced into rounds, Italian-style preferred)
- 16 oz frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (about 4 oz, freshly grated preferred)
- 6 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Red chili flakes (optional)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 400°F (this takes about 10 minutes). While it heats, toss the broccoli florets with minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper directly on your sheet pan. Spread everything in a single layer.
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Step 2: Roasting the Broccoli
Roast the broccoli for 10 minutes until it turns bright green with lightly browned edges but still feels crisp when pierced with a fork. This initial roast develops incredible flavor through caramelization.
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Step 3: Mixing the Ingredients
Increase the oven temperature to 450°F and let it preheat while you prepare the mixture (about 3-5 minutes). Transfer the roasted broccoli to a large bowl and combine it with sliced chicken sausage, frozen tortellini, the remaining 4 tablespoons of olive oil, and half of your parmesan cheese (about 1/2 cup). Mix everything thoroughly.
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Step 4: Cooking
Wipe your sheet pan with olive oil or line with parchment paper, then spread the mixture evenly across the pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown with crispy edges. If the tortellini looks dry halfway through, drizzle with 1-2 tablespoons of water.
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Step 5: Finishing Touch
Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top right before serving.
How to Serve Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served as a main course or as a hearty side. Pair it with a crisp salad to balance the richness of the bake or serve it alongside garlic bread for a delightful meal. A sprinkle of red chili flakes can add a nice kick for those who enjoy some heat!
How to Store Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
To store leftover Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
Expert Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
- Ensure that the broccoli is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances flavor and melts better than pre-grated cheese.
- For added texture, consider broiling for the last 2-3 minutes to get a wonderful crust on top.
- Feel free to swap the chicken sausage for turkey sausage or a vegetarian sausage if you’re looking for a healthier or plant-based option.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken sausage with a mix of sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
- Pasta Alternatives: Swap cheese tortellini for spinach or mushroom tortellini for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Yes, but be mindful of the cooking time as fresh tortellini may cook faster. Adjust accordingly! -
What can I substitute for chicken sausage?
Turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage works well. You can also use cooked chicken or ground turkey. -
How do I know when the dish is done cooking?
Look for bubbling cheese and crispy edges. The broccoli should be tender but not mushy. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare everything in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake when you’re ready to serve. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free tortellini, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.
Conclusion
Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake is a fantastic way to bring a comforting, flavorful dish to your table with minimal effort. The vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a hit for any family dinner or casual gathering. With its ease of preparation and satisfying taste, you’ll want to add this recipe to your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy a deliciously cheesy and hearty meal in no time!
Print
Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful and hearty dish combining cheesy tortellini, vibrant broccoli, and savory chicken sausage, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs fresh broccoli, cut into 1.5-inch uniform florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 11 oz chicken sausage, sliced into rounds (Italian-style preferred)
- 16 oz frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (about 4 oz, freshly grated preferred)
- 6 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red chili flakes, optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss the broccoli florets with minced garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on the sheet pan.
- Roast the broccoli for 10 minutes until bright green with lightly browned edges.
- Increase the oven temperature to 450°F. In a large bowl, combine the roasted broccoli, sliced chicken sausage, frozen tortellini, remaining 4 tablespoons of olive oil, and half of the parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- Spread the mixture evenly across the oiled sheet pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top right before serving.
Notes
Ensure that broccoli is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. Freshly grated parmesan enhances flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
