Family Tortelloni Bake with Turkey Sausage, Zucchini and Roasted Tomato Cream

Instructions

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   1. Preheat the oven to 220°C / 425°F. Place the cherry tomatoes on a small tray, toss them with 1 tablespoon olive oil, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. Roast for 15 minutes, until wrinkled and lightly caramelized.

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   2. While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortelloni 2 minutes less than the package directions so they stay very al dente. Drain and set aside with a small drizzle of oil so they do not stick.

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   3. Lower the oven temperature to 200°C / 400°F for the final baking step.

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   4. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the crumbled turkey sausage and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.

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   5. Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds more, stirring so it does not burn.

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   6. Add the zucchini, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes if using, the remaining salt, and black pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until the zucchini is tender but still slightly firm.

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   7. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor. Add the chicken broth and the roasted cherry tomatoes with their juices; gently crush them with the spoon.

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   8. Reduce the heat and add the cream cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add half of the shredded mozzarella and mix until melted.

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   9. Fold the cooked tortelloni into the skillet and gently combine so they are coated in sauce without breaking.

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    10. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish about 23 x 33 cm / 9 x 13 inches. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, the breadcrumbs, and the grated Parmesan evenly over the top.

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    11. Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden. For extra color, broil for 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely.

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    12. Let rest for 5 minutes out of the oven and finish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.