Creamy, Saucy, Smoked Mozzarella & Thyme Tortellini Bake

This family-style Italian dish is something I like to make on a cooler fall or winter evening shared with friends. It always reminds me that I don't use enough thyme in my cooking!! Easy to prepare, this dish really wows with the smokey flavors of mozzarella, creamy mascarpone cheese and fresh chopped thyme & parsley leaves. Serve this dish as a main course with a fresh tossed ceaser or chopped salad, and a nice bottle of red wine!


Creamy, Smoked Mozzarella & Thyme Tortellini Bake
Serves 4-6



Ingredients
oilive oil
2 cups Marinara
1/3 cup mascarpone cheese (a sweeter Italian style cream cheese, can be found at most grocers)
1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
1 tbsp fresh chopped thyme leaves (more to taste)
1 lb purchased cheese tortellini
2 oz thinly sliced smoked mozzarella
1/4 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese


Directions
1. Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees. Lightly oil and 8x8 baking dish
2. Whisk the sauce, mascarpone cheese, parsley & thyme in a bowl to blend.
3. Cook the tortellini according to the package, in a large pot of boiling salty water. Cook until tender, about 2 minutes.
4. Drain. Add the tortellini to the sauce and toss to coat. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with smoked mozzarella & Parmesan, cover and bake about 30 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce bubbles.

**Serve with fresh cracked pepper and grated Parmesan on top!