Savory Beefy Tortellini Bake – Comfort Food Delight

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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. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold dayβ€”perfect 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. It’s 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, it’s 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 couldn’t get enough of its cheesy goodness.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Cheese Tortellini: Use fresh or frozen tortellini; both work beautifully in this bake for a hearty base.

  • Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is best for balancing flavor without excess grease; feel free to substitute turkey for a lighter option.

  • Marinara Sauce: A good quality jarred marinara sauce enhances flavor; homemade is also fantastic if you have the time.

  • Shredded Cheese: Mozzarella adds that gooey meltiness; try mixing in some cheddar for extra flavor.

  • Italian Seasoning: This blend brings depth to the dish; use more or less depending on your taste preferences.

  • Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder elevates the overall flavor profile without overwhelming it.

  • 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.

Recipe preparation for Beefy Tortellini Bake

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 9Γ—13 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 servingβ€”if you can resist!

This Beefy Tortellini Bake is not just another pasta dish; it’s an experience filled with flavors that linger long after dinner is done. Whether you’re 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
  • It’s 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
  • Don’t 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; it’s 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.

Print
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Beefy Tortellini Bake


  • Author: Jennifer
  • 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, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

  1. Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a 9Γ—13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown the ground beef (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning; simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Fold cooked tortellini into the sauce until well coated.
  5. Layer half of the mixture in the baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, add remaining mixture, and top with more cheese.
  6. 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.

Tags:

baked pasta / cheesy recipes / Comfort food / Easy meals / family dinner / ground beef / tortellini

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