Why Make This Recipe
Beef & Cheese Tortellini Bake is a delightful, hearty dish perfect for families and gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavors, and sure to please both kids and adults. This recipe combines tender cheese tortellini, juicy ground beef, and a rich marinara sauce, all topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s not just tasty but also a fantastic way to use frozen ingredients, making it a quick go-to meal on busy nights.
How to Make Beef & Cheese Tortellini Bake
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 20 oz frozen cheese tortellini
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the beef, stirring well to combine.
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked cheese tortellini with the beef and sauce mixture.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Beef & Cheese Tortellini Bake
Serve Beef & Cheese Tortellini Bake hot from the oven. It goes well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for added flavor and freshness.
How to Store Beef & Cheese Tortellini Bake
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Beef & Cheese Tortellini Bake
- Use lean ground beef to cut down on fat.
- You can substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Use homemade marinara sauce if you prefer a fresher taste.
Variations
For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like cheddar or a cheese blend for more flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh tortellini. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh tortellini usually cooks faster.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with a meat substitute or mushrooms, and use vegetable marinara sauce to keep it vegetarian.
Beef & Cheese Tortellini Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef to cut down on fat.
- 20 oz frozen cheese tortellini Fresh tortellini can be used if preferred.
- 24 oz marinara sauce Homemade marinara can be used for a fresher taste.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the beef, stirring well to combine.
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked cheese tortellini with the beef and sauce mixture.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Baking
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
