Introduction
Welcome to a cozy night in with this Irresistible Beefy Tortellini Bake, a dish that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly! Picture a fragrant blend of seasoned ground beef mingling with tender cheese tortellini, all enveloped in a rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey, melted mozzarella. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night at home, this bake promises to be a delightful centerpiece on your table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 package (9 ounces) cheese tortellini, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect environment for baking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion becomes translucent. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about one minute, just until the aroma fills your kitchen.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, beef broth, dried Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Allow this mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Gently fold in the uncooked cheese tortellini and stir to combine everything beautifully. Cook for about 5 minutes, letting the tortellini soak up some of that delicious sauce.
- Carefully transfer the meaty tortellini mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, creating a lovely cheesy layer.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and has a hint of golden color.
- Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few moments. If you’d like, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving to add a pop of color and flavor!
Notes or Tips
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a little heat. This dish can also be made ahead of time; simply assemble everything in the baking dish and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly if cooking from a cold state.
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving a perfectly baked Tortellini Bake is to balance the cooking time between the sauce and the tortellini. You want to ensure that the tortellini cooks through while the flavors meld beautifully. Using a skillet to sauté the meat and onions before baking helps to develop rich flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for beef in this recipe.
Can I use fresh tortellini instead?
Yes, if using fresh tortellini, reduce the simmering time to just 2-3 minutes as they cook faster.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply swap out the beef for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Conclusion
This Irresistible Beefy Tortellini Bake is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings smiles around the dinner table. With its hearty ingredients and irresistibly creamy texture, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your home. So grab your loved ones, serve up generous portions, and enjoy the comfort and joy that this dish brings. Happy cooking!