Imagine a bubbling dish of Beefy Tortellini Bake, where cheesy tortellini meet the savory embrace of ground beef in a rich tomato sauce. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising comfort and satisfaction with each bite. Itβs the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold dayβperfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
This dish brings back memories of my friends and I huddled around the table, forks ready for a feast that would fuel our laughter and stories. Itβs simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to wow guests at parties. Trust me, your taste buds will be dancing with delight!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Beefy Tortellini Bake combines ease of preparation with an explosion of flavors that will satisfy any pasta lover
- The colorful layers create a visual masterpiece that looks stunning on your dinner table
- Plus, itβs versatile; you can switch up ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or fridge
- Enjoy it fresh from the oven or as delicious leftovers!
Sharing this recipe sparked cheers from my family who couldnβt get enough of its cheesy goodness.
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cheese Tortellini: Use fresh or frozen tortellini; both work beautifully in this bake for a hearty base.
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Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is best for balancing flavor without excess grease; feel free to substitute turkey for a lighter option.
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Marinara Sauce: A good quality jarred marinara sauce enhances flavor; homemade is also fantastic if you have the time.
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Shredded Cheese: Mozzarella adds that gooey meltiness; try mixing in some cheddar for extra flavor.
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Italian Seasoning: This blend brings depth to the dish; use more or less depending on your taste preferences.
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Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder elevates the overall flavor profile without overwhelming it.
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Olive Oil: Just a splash is needed to sautΓ© the beef and add richness to the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Beefy Tortellini Bake
Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Lightly grease a 9Γ13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
SautΓ© Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sautΓ© ground beef until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes; drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Marinara Sauce and Seasonings: Pour in the marinara sauce along with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Combine Tortellini with Sauce: Gently fold in cooked tortellini into the skillet until fully coated with sauce. The mixture should smell heavenly by now.
Add Cheese Layers: Transfer half of the tortellini mixture into your prepared baking dish, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Then layer the remaining tortellini mixture and top with more cheese.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it cool slightly before servingβif you can resist!
This Beefy Tortellini Bake is not just another pasta dish; itβs an experience filled with flavors that linger long after dinner is done. Whether youβre serving it up at a potluck or enjoying it solo on a rainy evening, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your home. Happy cooking! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
You Must Know
- Beefy Tortellini Bake is your go-to comfort food
- Itβs hearty, satisfying, and can be customized based on what you have in your pantry
- The bubbling cheese and rich sauce create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen and makes everyone eager for dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef, then cook the tortellini while you prepare the sauce for maximum flavor and efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different proteins like chicken or add veggies such as spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350Β°F until warmed through for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality tortellini for better texture and flavor
- Donβt skip browning the beef; it adds depth to the dish
- Let it cool before storing to preserve freshness and prevent sogginess
Sharing Beefy Tortellini Bake with friends always brings smiles; itβs that dish everyone asks for during chilly nights.
FAQ
How can I make Beefy Tortellini Bake vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
Can I freeze Beefy Tortellini Bake?
Yes, it freezes well! Just store in a freezer-safe container before reheating.
What toppings can I add to my Beefy Tortellini Bake?
Sprinkle fresh herbs, crushed red pepper, or extra cheese on top before serving for added flavor.

Beefy Tortellini Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Beefy Tortellini Bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines cheesy tortellini with savory ground beef in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, delivering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Easy to make yet impressive enough for guests, itβs sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a 9Γ13 inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown the ground beef (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Fold cooked tortellini into the sauce until well coated.
- Layer half of the mixture in the baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, add remaining mixture, and top with more cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider mixing in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Let leftovers cool before storing to maintain freshness.