Name: Delicious Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake for Family Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara or pasta sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 package (20 ounces) cheese tortellini — refrigerated or frozen; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

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Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake is the ultimate comfort food featuring tender cheese-filled tortellini, savory browned ground beef, and marinara sauce all baked to bubbly perfection under a blanket of gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This dish has quickly become a family favorite in my home, combining the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the ease of a one-pot meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake is not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake

There are countless reasons to adore this cheesy beef tortellini bake. First, it brings together the comforting flavors of cheese and beef in a single dish. Second, it’s a one-pot cheesy beef tortellini meal, making cleanup a breeze. Additionally, this hearty meal is perfect for kids, ensuring they’ll enjoy every bite. With a combination of marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, it’s bursting with flavor! It’s also freezer-friendly, allowing you to prepare extra servings for those busy nights. Finally, this beef and tortellini bake recipe is quick to whip up, requiring only 45 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake

Gather these items:

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara or pasta sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 package (20 ounces) cheese tortellini — refrigerated or frozen
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

How to Make Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 3: Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain excess fat.
Step 4: Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
Step 6: Stir cooked tortellini into the beef and sauce mixture until evenly coated.
Step 7: Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 8: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
Step 9: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 10: Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake

Keep these in mind:

This dish is freezer-friendly, perfect for meal prep.
It’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.
You can use store-bought marinara sauce or homemade for a personal touch.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding spinach to the mix.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake

This cheesy beef tortellini bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables. If you want to make it extra special, sprinkle some fresh basil on top right before serving. This baked tortellini with cheese is also delicious topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake

To store leftovers, allow the cheesy beef tortellini bake to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply place individual portions in the microwave or return the entire dish to a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. This makes it an easy easy cheesy beef tortellini dinner option for busy nights!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake?

The secret lies in cooking the tortellini just until al dente before mixing it with the beef and sauce. This ensures it retains its texture and doesn’t become mushy during baking.

Can I make Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for a day. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake?

Ensure you drain the ground beef well after cooking, as excess fat can make the dish greasy. Also, avoid overcooking the tortellini to maintain its texture.

Variations of Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake You Can Try

Experiment with these delightful variations:

Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Incorporate different cheeses, like gouda or cheddar, for a unique twist.
Try a vegetarian version by replacing the beef with a mix of beans and vegetables.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage for a delightful twist. You can also explore Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup for a comforting meal option.

For more information on the health benefits of pasta, you can visit Healthline.