Hearty Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort comes alive in this hearty beef and cheese tortellini bake that promises pure culinary magic.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with layers of savory goodness.

Pasta lovers will swoon over the rich, melted cheese blanketing perfectly cooked tortellini.

Robust ground beef adds a satisfying protein punch to every single bite.

Simple ingredients combine to create something extraordinary that feels like a warm kitchen hug.

Families gather around this delectable dish, eagerly anticipating each mouthwatering forkful.

You cannot wait to dive into this irresistible meal that transforms ordinary ingredients into something spectacular.

Storage Advice for Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake

• Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly to prevent moisture loss and maintain flavor.
• Pack the beef tortellini bake in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and store for 2-3 months. Avoid freezing for longer to prevent texture degradation.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place leftovers in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes. Remove foil during the last 5 minutes to crisp the cheese.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate.

FAQs About Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake

• Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just cook it according to package instructions before mixing with the meat sauce, and ensure it’s fully thawed.

• Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

• Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Definitely. Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work great in this recipe. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before mixing with tortellini.

Why You’ll Love Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake

• Crush Comfort Food Cravings: Dive into a hearty, cheesy dish that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction with every single bite.
• Speed Through Meal Prep: Combine simple ingredients quickly, transforming basic components into a mouthwatering dinner that feels like a gourmet experience.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Create a crowd-pleasing meal that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy and full.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup with a single baking dish that takes you from stovetop to oven without creating a mountain of dirty dishes.

Ingredients for Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake

• Ground Beef: A flavorful protein that forms the hearty base of this comforting dish.
• Tortellini: Delicious pasta pockets that add a delightful texture and substance to the bake.
• Marinara Sauce: A classic tomato sauce that provides rich, tangy flavor to the entire dish.
• Mozzarella Cheese: A melty cheese that creates a golden, gooey topping.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sharp cheese that adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

• Onion, Garlic: Foundational vegetables that build a robust and savory base for the meat sauce.
• Dried Basil, Oregano: Herbs that bring traditional Italian seasoning and depth to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a subtle richness to the initial cooking process.
• Beef Broth: A liquid that helps create a moist and flavorful sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional ingredient that provides a subtle heat and spiciness.

• Fresh Basil, Parsley: Herbs that add a fresh, bright finish to the baked dish.

Instructions for Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375F (190C) to get ready for some delicious baking action.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Drizzle olive oil into a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in chopped onions and let them dance until they turn soft and see-through, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

• Minced garlic

Add garlic and let it sizzle for a minute. Introduce ground beef to the pan, breaking it into crumbly bits as it browns. Drain away any extra grease.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

• Marinara sauce
• Beef broth
• Dried basil
• Oregano
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Let the sauce simmer and get friendly for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Tortellini and Meat

Grab a big bowl and mix the cooked tortellini with the meaty sauce until everything is well acquainted.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

• Shredded mozzarella
• Grated Parmesan

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for melted, bubbly cheese and golden-brown edges.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Pull the casserole out and let it chill for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Dig in and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake

• Drain Meat Thoroughly: Remove excess fat completely for a less greasy dish and better texture.
• Cheese Melting Trick: Let cheese reach room temperature before sprinkling to ensure even, smooth melting.
• Pasta Cooking Tip: Cook tortellini just until al dente to prevent mushiness during baking.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the meat sauce for deeper, richer taste.
• Fresh Herb Finale: Chop fresh herbs right before serving to maximize their aromatic flavor and brightness.

Flavor Variations for Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake

• Vegetarian Tortellini Bake: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a meat-free version that maintains rich flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortellini and substitute marinara sauce with a certified gluten-free brand to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Mediterranean Variation: Add kalamata olives, feta cheese, and extra red pepper flakes to create a zesty Mediterranean-inspired casserole with bold Mediterranean flavors.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Swap tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the hearty meat sauce and cheesy topping intact.

Pairing Suggestions for Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake

• Pair with Bold Red Wine: Select a robust Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon that complements the rich beef and melted cheese flavors.
• Create a Fresh Side Salad: Toss together crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light Italian vinaigrette to balance the hearty main dish.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: Prepare crusty Italian bread brushed with garlic butter and toasted until golden brown, perfect for soaking up extra marinara sauce.
• Add Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roast zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant with olive oil and herbs to provide a nutritious and colorful accompaniment to the tortellini bake.

Beef And Cheese Tortellini Bake Recipe

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4.9 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 35-42 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty beef and cheese tortellini bake delivers Italian-inspired comfort straight to family dinner tables. Melted cheese, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly seasoned ground beef create a delicious one-pan meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef

Cheese and Pasta:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) cheese tortellini
• 1 cup (100 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) marinara sauce
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnish:

• Fresh basil or parsley

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 375F (190C) to prepare for a hearty baked dish.
2. Sauté chopped onions in olive oil over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook briefly, then introduce ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart while cooking until thoroughly browned.
4. Drain any excess fat from the meat to ensure a clean, rich flavor profile.
5. Pour marinara sauce into the skillet, complementing the meat with beef broth, dried basil, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
6. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes, enabling the seasonings to develop a robust, integrated taste.
7. Gently fold cooked tortellini into the meat sauce, ensuring each pasta pocket is generously coated.
8. Transfer the combined mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly to create a uniform layer.
9. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan across the top, creating a golden, melty cheese blanket.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese becomes gloriously bubbling and edges turn a tempting golden brown.
11. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes after removing from oven, letting flavors settle and cheese slightly firm.
12. Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant, aromatic finishing touch before serving.

Notes

• Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a lighter dish.
• Drain the beef thoroughly after cooking to prevent a greasy texture and maintain the sauce’s consistency.
• Customize the spice level by adjusting red pepper flakes or adding other herbs like thyme or rosemary for depth.
• Opt for whole wheat tortellini to boost nutritional value and add a nutty flavor to the bake.

• Prep Time: 10-12 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 610 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg