4-Ingredient Pesto Tortellini Bake Recipe

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Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings. Quantities are based on the original version; cooking steps remain the same even if scaled.

• 1 (9 ounce) package tri-color cheese tortellini
• 1 cup prepared pesto
• 2 slices prosciutto, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 350F (180C).
2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tortellini and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until they float to the surface and the filling is heated through, about 3 minutes. Drain well.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with chopped prosciutto, pesto, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix gently to coat everything evenly.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden. Serve warm and enjoy.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 377
• Total Fat: 31g (40% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 9g (43% DV)
• Cholesterol: 29mg (10% DV)
• Sodium: 768mg (33% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 9g (3% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 15g (30% DV)
• Vitamin C: 0mg (0% DV)
• Calcium: 343mg (26% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (4% DV)
• Potassium: 415mg (9% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information may not be available for all ingredients.

History of the Dish

Although the 4-Ingredient Pesto Tortellini Bake is a modern, simplified recipe, its roots trace back to classic Northern Italian traditions. Tortellini, believed to originate from Emilia-Romagna, is associated with medieval culinary customs, while pesto carries the unmistakable heritage of Liguria. Combining these two staples in a baked form is a contemporary twist created to bring traditional flavors into busy home kitchens without sacrificing authenticity.

Regional Characteristics

This dish blends elements from two key Italian regions: Emilia-Romagna, famous for stuffed pastas, and Liguria, known for its fragrant basil pesto. While the original regional versions use handmade tortellini and freshly milled basil, the modern adaptation embraces convenience items such as store-bought pesto and packaged tortellini while still capturing the essence of Italian comfort food.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional pasta casseroles that rely on long ingredient lists, bchamel sauce, or slow simmering, this bake stands out through its minimalism. The emphasis on just four ingredients allows pesto to become the central flavor, with prosciutto adding depth and mozzarella delivering creamy richness. Its simplicity distinguishes it from heavier lasagnas, stuffed shells, or multi-layered bakes.

Where It Is Commonly Served

Youll often find variations of this dish served at casual family dinners, weeknight gatherings, or potlucks where quick preparation is essential. In Italian-American households, it is also a popular comfort meal and a favored option for meal prep, as it reheats well and maintains its bold flavors.

Interesting Facts

Tortellini is legendarily said to be shaped after the navel of Venus, a myth that adds charm to this humble pasta. Pesto itself dates back to ancient Roman herb pastes, making this simple four-ingredient bake a fusion of centuries-old culinary traditions. Despite its straightforward preparation, the dish adapts beautifully: swapping pesto varieties, adding vegetables, or experimenting with different cheeses can transform it while keeping its effortless character.

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