Tortellini are plump and tender after simmering in the sauceno need to cook them before adding to the pan.

And little pockets of cheese pop throughout each bite of this wonderful weeknight dinner.

1 1/2cupschicken stock

2 1/2tsp.smoked paprika, divided

1(24-oz.

Southern Living Baked Tortellini in the pan ready to serve

Credit:Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling; Prop Stylist: Prissy Lee Montiel

)jar marinara sauce(3 cups)

2(10-oz.)pkg.

refrigerated cheese tortellini(such as Giovanni Rana)

1 1/2cupsshredded smoked Cheddar or mozzarella cheese(6 oz.

), divided

3/4cuppanko breadcrumbs

1/4cupgrated Parmesan cheese(1 oz.)

ingredients for baked tortellini

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1Tbsp.olive oil

1garlic clove, grated (about 1/2 tsp.)

Heat bacon in a large, deep ovenproof skillet over medium.

Cook, stirring occasionally, until bacon is crisp, about 7 minutes.

cooking bacon until crisp in a large pan

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Add onion; cook, stirring often, until softened, about 3 minutes.

Simmer, stirring occasionally, until greens are wilted, about 4 minutes.

Add tomato sauce and tortellini:

Stir in marinara, and return to a simmer over medium-high.

collard greens in skillet with paprika sprinkled on top

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Add tortellini; cook, stirring occasionally, until tortellini begin to plump and soften, about 4 minutes.

Add cheeses and panko topping:

Remove from heat; fold in 1 cup Cheddar or mozzarella.

Sprinkle top with remaining 1/2 cup Cheddar or mozzarella.

tortellini stirred into tomato mixture

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Broil:

Broil until panko topping is golden brown, about 2 minutes.

Recipe Tips From TheSouthern LivingTest Kitchen

topping being sprinkled on baked tortellini in pan

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finished baked tortellini dish in skillet

Credit:Morgan Hunt Glaze; Prop Stylist: Pricilla Montiel; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall