Beefy Tortellini Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Beefy Tortellini Bake is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Combining tender cheese tortellini with savory ground beef and marinara sauce, it’s topped with melted mozzarella for a cheesy finish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 18 oz fresh cheese tortellini
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
3. Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Step 5: Gently fold in the tortellini until coated in the meat sauce.
6. Step 6: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a handful of fresh basil or parsley before baking.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Use frozen tortellini if fresh is unavailable, just cook a minute longer before baking.

Storage

Store leftover bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate before baking when ready.

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely. If using frozen tortellini, cook it according to package instructions before combining with the sauce, as frozen tortellini may require a bit more cooking time.

Beefy Tortellini Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 97 reviews

A hearty and comforting Beefy Tortellini Bake featuring tender ground beef, fresh cheese tortellini, and marinara sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner, combining savory flavors and cheesy goodness baked to golden perfection.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Cheese

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Pasta

• 18 oz fresh cheese tortellini

Sauce and Seasonings

• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Oils and Others

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking during baking.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sauté the diced onion for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Ensure the beef is cooked through with no pink remaining.
4. Add Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
5. Mix in Tortellini: Gently fold the fresh cheese tortellini into the meat sauce until evenly coated, making sure the pasta is fully incorporated but not broken.
6. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the tortellini and meat sauce mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Notes

• Use fresh tortellini for best texture, but frozen works if thawed properly.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
• To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to firm up before serving.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Beef tortellini bake, cheesy tortellini casserole, easy Italian dinner, baked pasta, ground beef pasta bake