There’s something magical about a warm, cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake that hugs you like your favorite childhood blanket. Imagine sinking your fork into tender pasta filled with savory beef, smothered in a rich tomato sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese. savory bacon cheese balls The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making it practically impossible to resist. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish is sure to win hearts and satisfy cravings.
I still remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were blown away by how flavorful and comforting it was. It became an instant favorite at our potlucks! Now, I whip it up for everything from lazy Sundays to festive gatherings, knowing that every bite brings joy and nostalgia.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Beef Tortellini Bake offers an effortless way to enjoy a hearty meal any day of the week. Its robust flavors will impress even the pickiest eaters. With vibrant colors and enticing aromas, it looks as good as it tastes. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd! [/info_box]
I vividly remember a rainy Saturday when I served this Beef Tortellini Bake to my friends. Their delighted reactions were priceless! For more inspiration, check out this Cozy One Pot Ravioli Soup recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious taco casserole. quick chicken fajita casserole.
Beef Tortellini: Look for high-quality tortellini filled with beef; fresh options work best for flavor.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce for the best taste; it makes all the difference!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole milk mozzarella for creaminess that melts perfectly on top.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
Olive Oil: Use extra-virgin olive oil to sauté the vegetables and add richness.
Fresh Basil (optional): Chopped fresh basil on top adds vibrant color and freshness just before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Sauté the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula—about 5-7 minutes.
Add Marinara Sauce: Pour in your marinara sauce once the beef is cooked through. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
Cook Tortellini: In another pot, bring salted water to boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain carefully.
Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: In your greased baking dish, layer half of the tortellini followed by half of the meat sauce mixture. Sprinkle half of both cheeses on top.
Add Remaining Layers & Bake: Repeat layering with remaining tortellini, sauce, and cheeses. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve hot with fresh basil sprinkled on top if desired. Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful Beef Tortellini Bake! garlic pull-apart bread.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Beef Tortellini Bake is a cozy dish that combines flavors and textures beautifully. The rich, savory aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a culinary superstar. Plus, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the beef until browned, then prepare the sauce while boiling the tortellini. This sequence saves time and enhances flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out beef for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best texture.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To elevate your Beef Tortellini Bake, consider using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged. Layering your cheese creates a delightful gooeyness and enhances flavor. Also, try sautéing garlic with your beef for an aromatic kick that everyone will love! [/info_box]
Sharing laughs over a bubbling Beef Tortellini Bake with friends reminds me of family gatherings where seconds were always encouraged.
FAQ
What type of tortellini works best for this recipe?
Use cheese or meat-filled tortellini for a hearty and flavorful dish.
Can I make Beef Tortellini Bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The top should be golden brown and bubbly; this indicates it’s perfectly cooked!
Beef Tortellini Bake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Beef Tortellini Bake is a comforting, cheesy dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal. Packed with tender beef-filled tortellini, zesty marinara sauce, and layers of melted cheese, this bake is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its enticing aroma and robust flavors, it’s sure to delight even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and great for leftovers!
Ingredients
- 12 oz beef tortellini
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; add ground beef and cook until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Cook tortellini in salted boiling water according to package instructions; drain.
- In the baking dish, layer half of the tortellini followed by half of the meat sauce and half of both cheeses. Repeat.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 830mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
