Easy Cheesy Baked Tortellini

“Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Easy Cheesy Baked Tortellini, a satisfying dish that combines tender tortellini with savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and rich pasta sauce. Perfect for busy evenings, this hearty bake promises to be a family favorite with its simple preparation and irresistible cheesy goodness.”

How to make Easy Cheesy Baked Tortellini

Ingredients:

20oz tortellini

1 lb ground beef

24oz pasta sauce

8oz cream cheese

2 cups mozzarella

1/2 cup parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Cook tortellini to al denta

Brown ground beef with a little salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Add pasta sauce and cream cheese and simmer.

Gently stir tortellini into sauce.

Pour into greased 9×13 pan.

Put mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Bake at 350 for 20 minutes. Broil for 2 minutes

Notes:

Tortellini Choice: Use your favorite type of tortellini—cheese-filled, meat-filled, or any other variety. Cooking it to al dente ensures it retains a pleasing texture after baking.

Ground Beef Seasoning: Season the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning while browning. This adds depth of flavor to the dish.

Creamy Sauce: The addition of cream cheese to the pasta sauce creates a rich and creamy texture, complementing the tortellini and beef.

Assembly: Mixing the cooked tortellini gently into the sauce ensures each piece is coated evenly without breaking them apart.

Baking Process: Greasing the baking dish prevents sticking, while layering mozzarella and Parmesan on top adds a gooey, cheesy crust during baking.

Cooking Time: Baking at 350°F for 20 minutes ensures the dish is heated through and the cheese melts. Broiling for 2 minutes at the end adds a golden crust to the cheese topping.

Variations: Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or adjusting the amount of cheese based on preference.

Serving: Letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking allows it to set before serving, ensuring easier slicing and serving.

Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Just increase baking time slightly if baking from cold.

Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.

Nutrition Information:

Yields: 8 | Serving Size: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use any type of tortellini for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any variety of tortellini you prefer, such as cheese-filled, meat-filled, or spinach-filled tortellini.

Can I substitute ground beef with another type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a leaner option.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese or mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the tortellini is cooked to al dente?

Follow the package instructions for cooking the tortellini.

Al dente means the pasta should be tender yet firm to the bite.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze.

When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

What can I serve with Easy Cheesy Baked Tortellini?

It pairs well with a side salad dressed with vinaigrette or garlic bread to complete the meal.

How many does this recipe serve?

This recipe typically serves about 6-8 people, depending on portion sizes.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

What if I don’t have a 9×13 pan?

You can use a similar-sized baking dish or even divide the mixture into two smaller baking dishes.