Beefy Tortellini Bake

Why Make This Recipe

Beefy Tortellini Bake is the perfect dish for busy families and anyone who loves comfort food bursting with flavor. This recipe combines tender beef, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy marinara sauce that ties everything together. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The best part? You can prepare it in under an hour! This recipe is ideal for meal prepping and freezes well, so you can whip up extra servings to enjoy later. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this dish impresses everyone at the dining table. Get ready for cheesy, meaty goodness that will please both adults and kids alike!

How to Make Beefy Tortellini Bake

Making Beefy Tortellini Bake is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps and enjoy a meal that fills your home with savory aromas. This recipe takes just about 30 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, making it a hassle-free choice for dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 package (12 ounces) tortellini
• 1 can (15 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook tortellini according to package instructions, then drain.
5. Combine the cooked tortellini with the meat sauce mixture.
6. Pour into a greased baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Beefy Tortellini Bake

Serving Beefy Tortellini Bake is simple and allows for creativity. Dish up generous portions onto plates and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. You can also serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

This dish can also serve as a make-ahead option for gatherings. Just prepare the tortellini bake in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven and bake as instructed. Let it be the star of your dinner table!

How to Store Beefy Tortellini Bake

Storing leftovers is easy with this Beefy Tortellini Bake. Here’s how you can keep the flavors fresh:

• Refrigerator: Allow the dish to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the tortellini bake. Cut it into individual portions or keep it whole. Wrap it in foil or place it in an airtight container. Label it and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes.

Tips to Make Beefy Tortellini Bake

• Choose Your Tortellini: You can opt for cheese tortellini or meat-filled tortellini based on your preference. Each variation will lend a different flavor profile to the dish.
• Add Vegetables: Sneak in some vegetables for added nutrition. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can enhance the dish. Sauté them with the beef for a delicious twist.
• Use Leftover Meat: If you have leftover grilled chicken or roast beef, use that instead of ground beef. Just chop it up and mix it into the sauce.
• Make it Spicy: For those who enjoy a kick, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for some heat.
• Cheese Variations: While mozzarella is classic, consider blending it with parmesan or cheddar for more flavor.

Variation

Beefy Tortellini Bake is wonderfully versatile. Here are a couple of variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for a mixture of sautéed vegetables, mushrooms, or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option. Use a plant-based cream or simply skip it for a lighter dish.
• Creamy Pesto Version: For a twist on flavors, substitute half of the marinara sauce with pesto. This adds a bright, herby taste that complements the cheese beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While mozzarella cheese is the classic choice, you can experiment with other types such as cheddar, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors.

2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. This is great for busy weeknights or gatherings.

3. How do I know when the dish is done baking?
Check for a golden-brown top with bubbling cheese. Insert a knife in the center; if it comes out hot and clean, the dish is ready to serve.

Making Beefy Tortellini Bake is a delightful journey filled with love and flavor. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal that brings family and friends together. Enjoy each bite of this creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish that keeps everyone asking for more!

Beefy Tortellini Bake

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• Author: amanda-hart
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting dish combining beef, cheesy tortellini, and creamy marinara sauce, perfect for busy families.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 package (12 ounces) tortellini
• 1 can (15 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook tortellini according to package instructions, then drain.
5. Combine the cooked tortellini with the meat sauce mixture.
6. Pour into a greased baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve with fresh parsley or basil, and consider pairing with a garden salad or garlic bread.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: beef, pasta, comfort food, easy dinner, family recipe