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Protein Addition: To make the dish more substantial, consider adding a protein source. Cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp can be excellent additions. Simply mix them in with the tortellini and pesto before baking.
Vegetable Boost: Incorporate more vegetables to add color and nutrition. Spinach, broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini can be mixed in with the tortellini. If you’re using vegetables that release water (like zucchini), you might want to sauté them first to remove some of the moisture.
Different Pesto: While basil pesto is the classic choice, you can experiment with other types of pesto for a different flavor profile. Sun-dried tomato pesto, arugula pesto, or even a walnut pesto can provide a unique twist.
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses for the topping. While mozzarella is great for a melty texture, adding a bit of smoked provolone, Gouda, or even blue cheese can introduce new flavors.
Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter on top before baking. This will add a nice crunch to the dish.
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