Description
Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake
A comforting and cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups marinara or pasta sauce
1/2 cup beef broth
10 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Make the Sauce:
Stir in the marinara sauce and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Prepare the Tortellini:
Cook the tortellini in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat.
Bake the Dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the tortellini and sauce mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
This cheesy beef tortellini bake is the perfect comfort food, bringing warmth and flavor to your table. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
For a foolproof dinner, follow this detailed guide. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you start cooking. In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and ground beef, breaking the meat apart with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is fully browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 60 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the marinara sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes. While the sauce simmers, cook the tortellini in a separate pot of well-salted boiling water. For best results, cook for 1-2 minutes less than the package directs, as it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain the tortellini and gently fold it into the skillet with the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire surface. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes. Watch for the cheese to be fully melted, bubbly, and lightly spotted with gold. Let the bake rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a lighter accompaniment, try steamed green beans or roasted broccoli.
How-to Summary
Brown beef with onion and garlic. Simmer with marinara and broth. Par-cook tortellini and combine with sauce. Top with cheese and bake at 375°F until bubbly. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the bake completely (through the cheese topping), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Ground Italian sausage, turkey, or chicken are excellent substitutes for the ground beef, each adding a unique flavor profile.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet? Simply prepare the meat sauce in any large skillet, combine with the tortellini, and then transfer the mixture to a standard 9×13 inch baking dish before adding cheese and baking.
Can I freeze the tortellini bake? It’s possible, but note that the texture of the tortellini may become softer upon reheating. Freeze after baking, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating in the oven.
How can I make this dish creamier? Stir 1/4 cup of cream cheese, ricotta, or heavy cream into the sauce after simmering for an extra rich and creamy result.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Tortellini: Boiling the tortellini to full softness before baking will result in a mushy final texture. Always undercook it slightly.
- Skipping the Broth: The beef broth is crucial for creating the right saucy consistency. Water will make the sauce taste diluted.
- Not Draining the Beef: Leaving excess fat from the ground beef can make the final dish greasy. Drain it well after browning.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly. Shredding a block of mozzarella yourself yields a superior, gooier result.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake is the epitome of easy, satisfying comfort food. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal fuss. Its versatility with ingredients and make-ahead potential makes it a reliable staple for busy weeknights. Serve it straight from the skillet for a cozy, flavorful dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite.