There’s something magical about a bubbling, cheesy casserole coming out of the oven. This Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake is the kind of comforting, flavor-packed dish that brings everyone flocking to the dinner table. Loaded with tender pasta, rich golden cheese sauce, and hearty bites of savory meat, it strikes the perfect balance between easy weeknight cooking and indulgent, crowd-pleasing comfort food.

Inspired by classic Philly-style flavors, this dish elevates your typical pasta casserole by layering cheese tortellini with a silky, golden cheese sauce and seared meat. The result? A warm, cozy, flavor-loaded meal that tastes like something you’d get at your favorite comfort-food restaurant—but made effortlessly at home.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, hosting friends, or planning an easy holiday dish, this casserole delivers big on creamy richness, hearty texture, and satisfying, cheesy goodness.

Why This Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake Wins Every Time

This recipe is more than delicious—it’s dependable, versatile, and guaranteed to please even picky eaters. Here’s what makes it a reliable go-to:

• Quick to prepare: You’ll have this layered, cheesy masterpiece ready to pop in the oven in under an hour.
• Loved by all ages: Pasta, cheese, and savory meat—what’s not to love?
• Endlessly customizable: Swap cheeses, throw in veggies, change the protein… it’s incredibly adaptable.
• Leftover-friendly: The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Bake, gather the following:

• 1 lb sirloin steak or steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or golden cheddar blend)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Fresh ingredients truly elevate this dish—high-quality steak and freshly shredded cheese give your casserole a richer, smoother, more luxurious finish.

How to Make It (Step-by-Step)

This recipe may look indulgent, but the steps are approachable and straightforward. Here’s how everything comes together:

1. Cook the Steak

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season your bite-sized steak pieces generously with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the steak pieces for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed. Remove and set aside; they’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Pro Tip: Medium-high heat gives steak that perfect golden crust without burning.

2. Prepare the Golden Cheese Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds.

Add flour to create a roux, cooking for one minute. Gradually whisk in milk and beef broth until smooth.

Add cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Stir until the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and silky.

Tip: Warm your milk slightly before adding—it helps create a smoother sauce.

3. Cook the Tortellini

Boil the tortellini according to package instructions, but keep them slightly undercooked. Drain and drizzle lightly with olive oil to keep them from sticking.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Combine tortellini, seared steak, and golden cheese sauce, mixing gently so the pasta remains intact.

Top with shredded mozzarella for a beautifully melty, golden finish.

5. Bake

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to settle.

Pro Tip: Broil for the last minute or two to deepen the golden top.

Serving Suggestions

This rich, cheesy bake pairs well with:

• A crisp side salad
• Garlic bread
• Roasted or steamed vegetables
• Mashed or roasted potatoes for extra comfort

Simple Variations

You can easily switch things up:

• Different Cheese: Use Gruyère, Fontina, or Italian blends.
• Add Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, roasted peppers.
• Swap Protein: Chicken, sausage, or ground beef.
• Spice Boost: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne.

Tips for Success

1. Slightly undercook the tortellini—they finish in the oven.
2. Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt.
3. Season every step for deeper flavor.
4. Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Nutrition (Approx.) per Serving

Serves 6

• Calories: 550–600
• Protein: 28–30g
• Carbs: 45–50g
• Fat: 28–30g