Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake: A Hearty, Cheesy Family Favorite

This Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake is a comforting, flavorful casserole featuring tender cheese tortellini smothered in a rich meat sauce, then topped with bubbly melted mozzarella. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this dish combines the best of pasta and cheese with savory ground beef in a single, easy-to-make bake that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh basil, sliced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 lb cheese tortellini, cooked and drained

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Beef:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
3. Add Aromatics:
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion turns translucent and the garlic releases its aroma.
4. Season and Simmer:
   • Stir in the dried oregano, thyme, and parsley, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend flavors.
5. Finish the Sauce:
   • Stir in the sliced fresh basil, then remove the skillet from the heat.
6. Combine with Tortellini:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with the meat sauce, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
7. Assemble the Bake:
   • Transfer the tortellini mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
8. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
9. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage, ground turkey, or a vegetarian meat substitute.
• Cheese Variations: Try a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, or provolone for more flavor.
• Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added texture and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: To freeze, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option but may soften the texture.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate, then bake within 24 hours.
2. Can I use fresh tortellini?
   • Absolutely! Just cook it as per package instructions before using.
3. Is there a substitute for fresh basil?
   • You can use dried basil, though fresh basil offers the best flavor.
4. Can I make this vegetarian?
   • Yes, substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
5. What other pasta can I use?
   • Other stuffed pastas like ravioli work well if tortellini is unavailable.
6. Can I add more cheese?
   • Definitely! Parmesan or a bit of ricotta mixed in adds more creaminess.
7. Will low-fat cheese work?
   • Yes, but the bake may be slightly less creamy.
8. Is there a gluten-free option?
   • Substitute with gluten-free tortellini and gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
9. Can I use marinara sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?
   • Yes, marinara works as an easy replacement.
10. How can I avoid a watery bake?
    • Use day-old tortellini if possible and simmer the sauce thoroughly.

Conclusion

The Beef and Cheese Tortellini Bake is a crowd-pleaser, packed with hearty beef, cheese, and pasta in a single dish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or potluck, this bake is versatile, easy to customize, and even easier to love. Enjoy this Italian-inspired favorite with your favorite side salad or garlic bread for a truly satisfying meal.

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