There’s something magical about the aroma of Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce wafting through your kitchen. Imagine creamy cheese melting into perfectly cooked tortellini, all enveloped in a rich, savory meat sauce that tantalizes your taste buds and sets your heart racing. Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Cheesy Spicy Cajun Pasta It’s like a warm hug from your favorite Italian grandmother, reminding you that comfort food is truly the best kind of food. Creamy Ranch Mozzarella Pasta.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
- Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
- How do I know when my baked tortellini is done?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! Picture yourself gathering around the dinner table, laughter filling the air as everyone dives into their cheesy, gooey bowls of joy. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a festive gathering with friends, this Cheesy Baked Tortellini will steal the show and leave everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds). For more inspiration, check out this chewy caramel cookies recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- The layers of melted cheese and savory meat sauce create a flavor explosion
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins
I vividly remember serving this dish at my niece’s birthday party. The kids’ faces lit up as they discovered the cheesy goodness hidden within each bite, leaving only empty plates behind.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cheese Tortellini: Opt for fresh tortellini for the best texture; frozen works too if you’re in a hurry.
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef gives you rich flavor without excess grease; feel free to substitute with turkey for a lighter option.
- Marinara Sauce: Homemade or store-bought, choose a brand that has high-quality ingredients for maximum flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness; mix it with an egg for extra creaminess when layering.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use part-skim mozzarella to maintain that gooey stretch while keeping it lighter. One Pan Mozzarella Pasta.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives an extra punch of flavor and elevates the dish’s overall taste.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil enhances the meat sauce’s flavor profile beautifully.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These staples add depth; fresh garlic can be used if preferred—just sauté it first!
- Salt & Pepper: Always season to taste! A pinch of salt can elevate all flavors in your dish significantly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3-5 minutes.
Sauté the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning while cooking.
Add Marinara Sauce and Simmer: Pour in your marinara sauce over cooked beef. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes so flavors meld together beautifully.
Layer Up!: In your greased baking dish, start layering by adding half of the tortellini on the bottom. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over them, then pour half of the meat sauce on top.
Add More Layers and Cheese!: Repeat by layering remaining tortellini followed by ricotta and then pour the rest of the meat sauce on top. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—a feast for both eyes and palate!
Enjoy every cheesy bite of your delicious creation! Let me know how it turns out in your kitchen!
You Must Know
- Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is a fantastic dish that combines comfort and flavor
- The rich meat sauce pairs beautifully with the cheesy tortellini, creating a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen
- It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat while boiling the tortellini. This multitasking ensures everything is ready to combine and bake simultaneously.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to enhance nutrition and flavor. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cheese for maximum creaminess and flavor
- Avoid overcooking the tortellini; they should remain al dente before baking
- Adding fresh herbs will elevate your dish and add a burst of freshness
I still remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering; everyone went back for seconds, and I felt like a culinary rock star!
FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly; just increase cooking time slightly.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I know when my baked tortellini is done?
Look for bubbling sauce and melted cheese, indicating it’s cooked through and ready to serve.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese, tender tortellini, and a rich, savory meat sauce. This delightful dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, offering a warm and inviting aroma that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Easy to prepare and versatile, you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for an added twist!
Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey)
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Cook tortellini in salted water according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat; season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Layer half of the tortellini in the baking dish; spread half of the ricotta mixture on top, followed by half of the meat sauce. Repeat layers and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
