Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty baked dish, and this Irresistible Beefy Tortellini Bake is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. Packed with tender cheese tortellini, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped off with a gooey layer of melted cheese, this recipe has a little bit of everything to please young and old alike! Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends, each bite is bursting with flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Combine the cooked tortellini with the beef mixture, stirring gently to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Transfer the delicious mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top, creating a melty layer of cheesiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch and added flavor.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this bake by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, or even switching it up with Italian sausage for a bit of spice. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can replace the beef with ground turkey or a meat substitute. This dish is highly forgiving, and leftovers reheat wonderfully, making it a great meal prep option!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe employs a few classic techniques that are perfect for home cooks at any level. Sautéing the ground beef with onions and garlic creates a fragrant base, while simmering the sauce allows the flavors to deepen and blend beautifully. Baking the dish at a high temperature ensures that the cheese achieves that perfect golden-brown top, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy filling beneath.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time if cooking straight from the fridge.
What should I serve with this dish?
This hearty bake is delicious on its own, but you can round out the meal with a crisp salad and some garlic bread for an extra special touch!
Conclusion
This Irresistible Beefy Tortellini Bake is not just a meal; it’s a warm, welcoming hug served in a casserole dish. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, it combines ease with comfort, ensuring you’ll always have a crowd-pleaser on your hands. Embrace those hearty flavors and let this bake become a new favorite in your home—enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!