Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, comforting meal that brings rich flavors and satisfying textures to your dinner table, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe. Imagine tender cheese-filled tortellini nestled in a luscious, meaty marinara sauce, all topped with a golden blanket of bubbly mozzarella and parmesan. It’s a perfect family-friendly dish that’s just as impressive on a weeknight as it is for casual entertaining. Cozy, cheesy, and downright delicious, this pasta bake checks all the boxes for a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each one adds a crucial layer of flavor, texture, or color that transforms simple components into an unforgettable feast.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides that rich, savory base with plenty of protein and hearty flavor.
- 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz): Brings bright tomato notes and a saucy richness that coats every bite.
- 1 package refrigerated cheese tortellini (about 9 oz): Soft and cheesy pockets that melt in your mouth and soak up sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a stretchy, gooey topping that’s pure comfort food bliss.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty punch that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers classic Italian herbaceous notes for authenticity.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle kick of heat that livens things up if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and bring all the flavors to life.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): A bright, aromatic touch that adds freshness and beauty when serving.
How to Make Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Getting this ready early means you can assemble everything quickly once your components are cooked, ensuring no one waits too long for that cheesy, beefy yumminess.
Step 2: Cooking the Ground Beef and Sauce
Cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s nicely browned, bringing out that deep meaty flavor. Next, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from feeling greasy. Stir in your marinara sauce along with garlic powder, dried oregano, red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to let those flavors marry beautifully.
Step 3: Cooking the Tortellini
While the sauce simmers, cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. After cooking, drain thoroughly so it doesn’t add unwanted water to your bake, but keep it warm and ready for the next step.
Step 4: Combining Tortellini and Beef Sauce
In your prepared baking dish, mix the cooked tortellini with the beef and tomato sauce. This step is crucial to ensure every cheesy morsel is generously coated with that flavorful sauce that makes this Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe so irresistible.
Step 5: Adding the Cheese Toppings
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan evenly over the top of your pasta mixture. These cheeses will melt into a gorgeous golden crust that adds a luscious texture contrast and bursts of savory flavor.
Step 6: Baking to Perfection
Bake the assembled pasta bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbling, and turning a gorgeous golden brown around the edges. The aroma filling your kitchen at this moment is absolutely unbeatable.
Step 7: Cooling and Garnishing
Once out of the oven, give the bake a few minutes to cool and set slightly before serving. This resting time helps the flavors settle and makes slicing easier. If you have fresh basil, scatter some over the top for a fragrant, colorful finishing touch.
How to Serve Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a perfect garnish for this dish, adding a burst of color and herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness. If you want to boost texture, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top amps up the flavor even more.
Side Dishes
This beefy, cheesy bake pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, such as a simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy Caesar salad. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also work well, adding freshness and balance to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of fun, serve single portions of the beefy tortellini pasta bake in individual mini cast iron skillets or oven-safe ramekins. It feels special and inviting! Another idea is to accompany the bake with warm garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to soak up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake keeps wonderfully covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and prevent the pasta from drying out.
Freezing
This recipe freezes remarkably well. After baking and cooling completely, portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly again. Alternatively, microwave individual servings, covering loosely to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly! Just cook it according to package directions and be sure to drain well before combining with the sauce to avoid watery bake.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the ground beef for plant-based meat crumbles or cooked lentils. The cheese and herbs will still provide plenty of flavor and satisfying texture.
Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
Definitely! Homemade marinara can elevate the dish with fresher, more personalized flavor. Use your favorite recipe or a simple tomato sauce with herbs and a splash of garlic.
What if I don’t have parmesan cheese?
If parmesan isn’t on hand, try another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or a sprinkle of Asiago for a similar salty, nutty note.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, just double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two dishes to accommodate. Keep the same baking temperature; cooking times may vary slightly depending on the depth of your dish.
Final Thoughts
This Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe has quickly become a beloved go-to for meals that satisfy everyone around the table. It’s the kind of dish that comforts and delights with every cheesy, hearty bite. I encourage you to give it a try and make it your own—it truly is a comforting classic in the best way possible.
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Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and comforting Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake that combines savory ground beef with tender cheese tortellini, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, baked to golden bubbly perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this dish is flavorful, easy to prepare, and sure to satisfy pasta and meat lovers alike.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 package refrigerated cheese tortellini (about 9 oz)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Cook Tortellini: Meanwhile, cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the tortellini thoroughly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked tortellini with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Add Cheese Topping: Evenly spread shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta and sauce mixture.
- Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase red pepper flakes according to taste.
- Use fresh basil to add a burst of freshness just before serving.
- Make sure to drain the tortellini well to avoid watery pasta bake.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- To make it lower fat, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey and reduce the cheese amount.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
