Description
Get ready to fall in love with this irresistible Cheesy Chicken Tortellini Bake for Two! Perfectly portioned and overflowing with melty cheese, tender chicken, and rich cream sauce, this easy dinner idea is your go-to for quick comfort food. Whether you need a cozy weeknight dinner or new meal inspiration for two, this quick bake is one of the best dinner ideas to keep on rotation. It’s creamy, hearty, and filled with flavor—an easy recipe that feels indulgent but is simple enough for any night.
Ingredients
9 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups whole milk or half-and-half
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pinch red pepper flakes or chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook tortellini for 2-3 minutes (slightly underdone), then drain.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until fragrant.
6. Remove from heat and stir in 3/4 cup mozzarella and all Parmesan until smooth and melted.
7. In a mixing bowl, combine tortellini, chicken, spinach, and cheese sauce. Mix until evenly coated.
8. Transfer mixture to the baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella.
9. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden. Optional: broil for 2–3 minutes for extra browning.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
1. Use fresh spinach for the best texture and flavor, or thoroughly drain thawed frozen spinach.
2. Always slightly undercook the tortellini to avoid mushiness when baked.
3. Letting the bake rest after coming out of the oven helps the sauce thicken and flavors settle.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 810mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 105mg