Baked Tortellini – JSK Way

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Boil Tortellini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (≈190°C) (approximately 190°C). In a large pot, combine 32 oz chicken broth and 4 cups of water. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil. Add the 12 oz dry tortellini and cook for 5-6 minutes until al dente. Drain the tortellini and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Aromatics and Herbs

While the tortellini is cooking, finely chop 1 medium onion. Mince 1 head of fresh garlic (if not using garlic paste). Chop fresh basil and parsley for the sauce and garnish.

Step 3: Brown the Meats

In a large pan over medium-high heat, add 1/2 lb ground beef, 1/2 lb ground turkey, and 1/2 lb mild Italian sausage. Cook until the meat is halfway browned, using a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and 1-2 tablespoons of garlic paste (or minced fresh garlic) to the meat mixture. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully browned and the onions are translucent.

Step 5: Drain Excess Grease

Carefully drain any excess grease from the meat mixture. You can use paper towels to soak up the oil or tilt the pan and spoon out the grease.

Step 6: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes and 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Add Accent, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, Tony's Creole Seasoning, Adobo, and Italian seasoning to taste. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 7: Simmer the Sauce

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in a portion of the chopped fresh basil.

Step 8: Combine and Layer

In a baking dish, add the cooked tortellini. Pour the meat sauce over the tortellini and gently mix to coat all the pasta evenly.

Step 9: Add Cheese and Herbs

Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the tortellini and sauce. Then, spread 3 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Garnish with the remaining chopped fresh basil and parsley.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven at 375°F (≈190°C) (approximately 190°C) and bake for 18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 11: Serve

Carefully remove the baked tortellini from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set. Enjoy your delicious Baked Tortellini JSK Way!

• You can use pre-made tortellini from the cold section to save time on boiling.