Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake: A Quick and Delicious Dinner Recipe

Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake: A Quick and Delicious Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dinner recipe that requires minimal cleanup, look no further than this Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake. This dish is a perfect combination of roasted broccoli, cheesy tortellini, and savory chicken sausage, all baked to perfection on a single sheet pan. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a casual dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s SEO-optimized to help you find the best tips and tricks for making this dish a staple in your kitchen.


Why You’ll Love This Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake

This Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake is a game-changer for several reasons:

  1. Easy Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks on a single sheet pan, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
  3. Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
  4. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy tortellini and flavorful broccoli.
  5. Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers.

Ingredients for Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake:

  • 1 1/2 lbs of fresh broccoli (about 3 medium-small crowns), cut into florets
  • 1 tablespoon (3 cloves) of garlic, minced fine
  • 11 oz of chicken sausage (or 4 links of your favorite sausage), precooked
  • 16 oz package of frozen cheese tortellini
  • 8 oz of grated parmesan cheese (avoid the canned variety for the best flavor)
  • 1/4 teaspoon of red chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
  • 6 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF. This ensures your sheet pan is ready to go as soon as you’ve prepped your ingredients.

Step 2: Roast the Broccoli

On a large sheet pan, toss the broccoli florets and minced garlic with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread the broccoli evenly across the pan and roast for 10 minutes at 400ºF. The broccoli should be partially cooked, bright green, and slightly tender but not fully done.

Step 3: Prepare the Sausage

While the broccoli is roasting, slice the precooked chicken sausage into thin rounds. Place the slices in a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Increase Oven Temperature

Once the broccoli has roasted for 10 minutes, remove it from the oven and increase the temperature to 450ºF. This higher heat will help crisp up the tortellini and sausage in the next steps.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Carefully add the roasted broccoli and garlic to the bowl with the chicken sausage. Add the frozen tortellini, red chili flakes (if using), and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Measure out 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese and set it aside for later. Add the remaining parmesan cheese to the bowl and gently toss everything together until well coated.

Step 6: Prepare the Sheet Pan

Using the same sheet pan you roasted the broccoli on, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and spread it around to coat the pan. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 7: Bake the Dish

Pour the broccoli, tortellini, and sausage mixture onto the prepared sheet pan. Spread it out evenly. Bake at 450ºF for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the edges of the tortellini and sausage are crispy.

Step 8: Add the Finishing Touches

Remove the sheet pan from the oven and sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese over the top. For an extra burst of flavor, garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.


 The Versatility of Sheet Pan Dinners

Sheet pan dinners have become a staple in modern kitchens, and for good reason. They offer a convenient, efficient, and delicious way to prepare meals with minimal cleanup. The Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake is a perfect example of how versatile and adaptable sheet pan cooking can be. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone who simply loves good food, sheet pan dinners are a lifesaver.

One of the greatest advantages of sheet pan dinners is their flexibility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, in the Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake, you can swap out the chicken sausage for a vegetarian alternative or add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to create a meal that everyone will enjoy.

Another benefit of sheet pan dinners is their efficiency. By cooking everything on a single pan, you save time on both preparation and cleanup. This is especially helpful on busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table quickly. The Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake is ready in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect option for those hectic evenings.

Finally, sheet pan dinners are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Roasting vegetables like broccoli brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious depth of flavor to the dish. Plus, the combination of vegetables, protein, and carbs ensures a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

 The Health Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, and it plays a starring role in the Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake. This versatile vegetable is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to overall health and well-being. Including broccoli in your diet can provide numerous health benefits, making it a valuable addition to any meal.

One of the most notable health benefits of broccoli is its high vitamin C content. Just one cup of broccoli provides more than 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function, skin health, and collagen production. Additionally, broccoli is rich in vitamin K, which is important for bone health and blood clotting.

Broccoli is also a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. The fiber in broccoli can help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol, and promote a feeling of fullness, making it a great choice for those looking to manage their weight.

Furthermore, broccoli contains powerful antioxidants like sulforaphane, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties. These antioxidants help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Incorporating broccoli into dishes like the Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake is an easy and delicious way to reap these health benefits. The roasting process enhances the natural flavors of the broccoli, making it a tasty and nutritious addition to the meal.

 Tips for Perfectly Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables is a simple yet transformative cooking technique that brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious depth of flavor. In the Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake, roasting the broccoli is a key step that ensures the vegetable is tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfectly roasted vegetables every time.

First, it’s important to cut your vegetables into uniform pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others are undercooked. For broccoli, aim for florets that are roughly the same size.

Next, don’t overcrowd the sheet pan. Giving the vegetables enough space allows for proper air circulation, which helps them roast rather than steam. If the pan is too crowded, the vegetables may become soggy instead of crispy.

Seasoning is another crucial factor. Toss the vegetables with a generous amount of olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting. The oil helps to coat the vegetables and promotes even browning, while the salt and pepper enhance their natural flavors. You can also add other seasonings like garlic, herbs, or spices for extra flavor.

Finally, pay attention to the roasting temperature and time. For most vegetables, a temperature of 400ºF to 450ºF works well. Roasting at a higher temperature helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the vegetables, resulting in a delicious, slightly crispy exterior. Keep an eye on the vegetables as they cook, and stir them occasionally to ensure even browning.


Nutritional Information

This Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

  • Calories: 490
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 1036mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 84mg

Serving Suggestions

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but you can pair it with a few sides to round out the meal:

  • Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balance.
  • Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Fresh Tortellini Instead of Frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini works just as well. However, since fresh tortellini cooks faster, you may need to reduce the baking time slightly to prevent overcooking.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?

While you can freeze leftovers, the texture of the broccoli and tortellini may change slightly upon reheating. For best results, enjoy this dish fresh.

Can I Make It Vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken sausage or replace it with a plant-based sausage alternative. You can also add more vegetables or a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for extra protein.


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Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake: A Quick and Delicious Dinner Recipe

Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake

This Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake is a quick, flavorful, and wholesome dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender broccoli, cheesy tortellini, and savory chicken sausage, all roasted together with garlic, olive oil, and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese. The best part? It’s all made on one sheet pan, so cleanup is a breeze! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

  • Author: Emma Parker
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs fresh broccoli (about 3 medium-small crowns), cut into florets
  • 1 tablespoon (3 cloves) garlic, minced
  • 11 oz chicken sausage (or 4 links of your favorite sausage), precooked
  • 16 oz package frozen cheese tortellini
  • 8 oz grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated recommended)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
  • 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil and extra red chili flakes for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roast Broccoli: On a sheet pan, toss the broccoli florets and minced garlic with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 10 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and partially cooked.
  3. Prepare Sausage: While the broccoli roasts, slice the chicken sausage into thin rounds and place them in a large bowl.
  4. Increase Oven Temperature: Remove the broccoli from the oven and increase the temperature to 450°F (230°C).
  5. Combine Ingredients: Carefully add the roasted broccoli and garlic to the bowl with the sausage. Add the frozen tortellini, red chili flakes (if using), and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Set aside 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese, then add the rest to the bowl. Toss everything together until well coated.
  6. Prepare Sheet Pan: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil onto the same sheet pan and spread it around to prevent sticking.
  7. Bake: Spread the tortellini mixture evenly on the sheet pan. Bake at 450°F for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden, and the edges are crispy.
  8. Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese on top. Garnish with fresh basil and extra red chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  1. Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, grate your own parmesan cheese instead of using pre-grated cheese from a can.
  2. Customize the Protein: Swap chicken sausage for Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
  3. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Roast the broccoli just until it’s bright green and slightly tender—it will finish cooking with the tortellini.
  4. Add Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
  5. Make It Spicy: If you love heat, increase the red chili flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 490 kcal per serving
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 1036mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 84mg

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Final Thoughts

This Sheet Pan Broccoli Tortellini Bake is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves easy, flavorful, and comforting meals. With its combination of roasted broccoli, cheesy tortellini, and savory sausage, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, the convenience of using just one sheet pan makes it a winner for busy cooks. Give it a try tonight and let us know what you think in the comments below!

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