Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious meal, this baked cheese tortellini with ground beef is a perfect choice. Combining tender cheese tortellini with a rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. It’s ideal for a family dinner or when you have guests over. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation for this tasty recipe!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound ground beef
24 ounces marinara sauce
20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes.
4. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the skillet, stirring to coat the tortellini evenly with the sauce.
5. Transfer half of the tortellini mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
6. Add the remaining tortellini mixture on top of the cheese layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, set over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, usually about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to break apart any large chunks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from being greasy.
Step 3: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir well to combine the beef and sauce. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate Cheese Tortellini
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the skillet. Carefully stir to ensure that the tortellini is evenly coated with the marinara-beef sauce mixture.
Step 5: Layer the First Half
Transfer half of the tortellini mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of this layer to create a cheesy base.
Step 6: Layer the Remaining Mixture
Add the remaining tortellini mixture to the baking dish, placing it on top of the cheese layer. Top this with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for a deliciously gooey finish.
Step 7: Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the dish to heat through.
Step 8: Uncover and Continue Baking
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly, creating a golden top layer.
Step 9: Let it Rest Before Serving
Once done, take the baking dish out of the oven. Allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps the dish set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Notes
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Variations
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the dish for added nutrition. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a fresh touch.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat. In this recipe, the ground beef is sautéed in a skillet until browned, allowing it to develop flavor while ensuring even cooking.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a low temperature after it reaches a boil. Adding marinara sauce to the cooked ground beef and letting it simmer helps to marry the flavors together and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Layering
Layering is essential for creating texture and flavor in baked dishes. In this recipe, the tortellini mixture is layered in a baking dish, alternating with mozzarella cheese to create a delicious, cheesy crust on top.
Baking
Baking involves cooking food using dry heat in an oven. Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil traps steam, cooking the dish evenly, while removing the foil at the end allows the cheese to melt and become bubbly and golden.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative if you prefer a healthier or vegetarian option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tortellini mixture and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with this dish?
This cheesy tortellini bake pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinara sauce to give the dish a little heat according to your preference.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
Conclusion
This baked tortellini dish with ground beef and marinara sauce combines rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. The layers of cheese add a delicious gooeyness that complements the tortellini beautifully. Enjoy this delightful casserole with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Tortellini Bake
Substitute ground beef with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach for a lighter, vegetarian option.
Chicken Alfredo Tortellini
Replace the marinara sauce with creamy Alfredo sauce and add cooked chicken pieces for a rich and savory twist.
Tortellini and Sausage Skillet
Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a spicier flavor, combining it with the marinara for a hearty skillet meal.
Cheesy Spinach Tortellini
Stir in some fresh spinach and ricotta cheese to the original mixture for a creamy, cheesy version packed with nutrients.
Meatball Tortellini Casserole
Incorporate small meatballs along with the ground beef to add extra protein and a fun texture to the dish.
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini
Add shredded buffalo chicken into the marinara sauce for a zesty and spicy take on the classic recipe.
