Picture this: a bright, colorful plate of Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake. It’s a comforting dish that combines tender, roasted broccoli, savory chicken sausage, and creamy cheese tortellini, all baked to perfection. This one-pan wonder is not only easy to prepare but also brightens up any dinner table with its vibrant ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just looking to treat yourself, this meal brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Why Make This Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
This recipe is a clever twist on traditional pasta dishes, offering a quick yet nutritious meal that’s ready in just about 30 minutes. The use of broccoli adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color, while chicken sausage provides a flavorful protein that complements the rich cheese. Plus, everything is cooked on a single sheet pan, which means less cleanup! It’s a win-win situation for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.
How to Make Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
Creating this delicious dish is straightforward and does not require extensive culinary skills. You’ll start by roasting the broccoli to bring out its natural sweetness and enhance flavor. Next, you’ll combine the roasted veggies with juicy chicken sausage and cheesy tortellini, then bake it until the cheese melts into gooey perfection. The result is a dish that is not only hearty and filling but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal for all ages.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 the sliced chicken sausage, frozen tortellini, remaining 4 tablespoons of olive oil, and half of your parmesan cheese (about 1/2 cup). Mix everything thoroughly.
- Wipe your sheet pan with olive oil or line it 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.
- Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top right before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (serves about 6):
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 22g
How to Serve Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
This dish is fantastic served directly from the oven, bubbling with cheese and loaded with flavor. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light side salad or some garlic bread. It’s also great as leftovers, making it perfect for lunch boxes or cozy dinners the next day.
How to Store Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent it from drying out. You can reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli will give you the best flavor and texture. Frozen broccoli can also be used, but it may become mushy during baking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure to spread the mixture evenly on your sheet pan. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Customize Your Sausage: Feel free to swap out the chicken sausage for turkey or even a vegetarian option to suit dietary preferences.
Delicious Variations
- Add More Veggies: Try adding bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for even more color and flavor.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or feta alongside the parmesan for a deeper cheesy experience.
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate this dish with an aromatic touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just reduce the baking time slightly, as fresh tortellini typically cooks faster.
2. Can I substitute the chicken sausage?
Yes! You can easily substitute it with turkey, pork, or any plant-based sausage for a different spin.
3. What’s the best way to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure that the sausage is certified gluten-free.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy heat, add more red chili flakes or try spicy chicken sausage for an extra kick.
5. Is it okay to freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just ensure to cool thoroughly, then store in an airtight container.
6. Can I air fry this dish?
You can adapt this recipe for an air fryer; just check your manufacturer’s guidelines for cooking times and temperatures.
7. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the sausage and add more veggies or plant-based proteins like chickpeas to keep it satisfying.
8. What if I don’t have parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with any cheese you have on hand; mozzarella or a mix of Italian cheeses will work nicely.
9. How do I know when it’s done?
The dish is done when the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and the broccoli has a slight crisp.
10. Can I use different pasta?
Sure! You can use another type of pasta, just make sure it’s pre-cooked before mixing it with other ingredients.
Conclusion
In just a few steps, you’ll have a warm, cheesy, and satisfying Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake that’s perfect for any night of the week. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So why not give it a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you! Please let us know how it turned out or any variations you tried; we love hearing from you!
Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (about 10 minutes). Toss the broccoli florets with minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper on your sheet pan.
- Roast the broccoli for 10 minutes until bright green with lightly browned edges, being crisp when pierced with a fork.
- Increase the oven temperature to 450°F while preparing the mixture (about 3-5 minutes). Transfer roasted broccoli to a bowl and mix with sliced chicken sausage, frozen tortellini, 4 tablespoons olive oil, and half of the parmesan cheese.
- Spread the mixture evenly across the oiled or parchment-lined sheet pan and bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- If tortellini looks dry midway, drizzle with 1-2 tablespoons of water.
- Sprinkle remaining parmesan cheese on top right before serving.