Description
This Baked Tortellini with Ground Beef is a comforting Italian-inspired casserole featuring tender cheese tortellini, savory ground beef simmered in a rich marinara sauce, and a generous topping of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 18 ounces dry cheese tortellini (two 9–10 oz packages)
Sauce & Meat
- 1 15-ounce container marinara sauce
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- ½ cup diced white onion
- 3 large garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Cheese & Garnish
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Other
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook for 2 minutes less than the package directions indicate, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Drain the tortellini and set aside.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, using a spoon to break it up into small pieces for even cooking.
- Season Meat: Stir in garlic powder, dried basil, dried parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until the herbs become fragrant.
- Add Marinara Sauce and Simmer: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture, stirring well to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Combine Tortellini and Meat Sauce: Transfer the cooked tortellini to the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef marinara mixture over the tortellini and stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by grated Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- For a lower fat version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried if available for a brighter flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the tortellini in boiling water, as they will finish cooking in the oven.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
