Hearty Beefy Tortellini Bake
Beefy Tortellini Bake: A Comforting Dinner Delight
Beefy Tortellini Bake is a delightful combination of tender cheese-filled pasta, savory ground beef, and rich marinara sauce, all topped with gooey melted mozzarella cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. It is an easy-to-make recipe that even novice cooks can master, making it a great addition to your culinary repertoire.
Why Make This Recipe
This Beefy Tortellini Bake is not just delicious; it’s also highly satisfying and bursting with flavors. The hearty ground beef pairs excellently with cheesy tortellini and a homemade marinara sauce, creating a well-balanced meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients like onions and garlic into your meal while keeping it simple and straightforward. The best part? It’s a one-dish recipe, making cleanup a breeze!
How to Make Beefy Tortellini Bake
Ingredients
To prepare this delicious Beefy Tortellini Bake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Also, spray a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent the dish from sticking.
- Sauté Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
- Brown the Beef: Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
- Add Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook Tortellini: Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain the tortellini once cooked.
- Combine Ingredients: Combine the cooked tortellini with the meat mixture, ensuring it is well coated with the sauce.
- Assemble Dish: Transfer the tortellini and meat mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top generously with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
How to Serve Beefy Tortellini Bake
Serve your Beefy Tortellini Bake hot straight from the oven, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a green salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Beefy Tortellini Bake
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions of the bake for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply bake in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Beefy Tortellini Bake
- Choosing Tortellini: If using frozen tortellini, make sure to cook it according to the package instructions for best results.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, consider adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the meat mixture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish a day ahead, refrigerate it, and simply bake when you’re ready to serve.
Variations
- Meat-Free Option: Substitute ground beef with a plant-based protein or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different types of cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, using store-bought marinara sauce can save time without compromising flavor.
Q2: Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This Beefy Tortellini Bake freezes well and can be reheated later for a quick meal.
Q3: How can I make it spicier?
For added heat, consider mixing in red pepper flakes or using spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
In conclusion, Beefy Tortellini Bake is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines simple ingredients into a delicious, hearty meal. Enjoy making and sharing this recipe with friends and family!
Beefy Tortellini Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Savory choice for protein
- 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini Use fresh or frozen tortellini
- 2 cups marinara sauce Can use store-bought for convenience
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Goes on top for a creamy finish
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Enhances the flavor
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nice touch of saltiness
- 1 tbsp olive oil For sautéing
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic for better flavor
- 1 medium onion, chopped Provides sweetness when sautéed
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet, cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, letting the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook tortellini according to package directions until al dente, then drain.
- Combine the cooked tortellini with the meat mixture, ensuring it is well coated.
- Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish, top with mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan over the top.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
