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

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Lina Murphy

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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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