Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake
🛒 Ingredients:
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1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
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1 lb (450g) ground beef
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1 small onion (finely chopped)
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 cup marinara sauce
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½ cup heavy cream
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
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1 tbsp olive oil
👩🍳 Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook Tortellini
Boil tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside (slightly undercook by 1 minute).
2️⃣ Cook Beef
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add onion and sauté 2–3 minutes.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
3️⃣ Make Sauce
Stir in marinara sauce and heavy cream.
Add chili flakes if using.
Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4️⃣ Combine
Mix cooked tortellini with beef sauce.
Transfer to a greased baking dish.
5️⃣ Add Cheese & Bake
Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Broil 2–3 minutes for extra browning (optional).
6️⃣ Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve hot.
❓ Q & A
Q1: Can I use sausage instead of ground beef?
Yes! Italian sausage adds even more flavor.
Q2: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q3: Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Q4: How do I make it creamier?
Add ½ cup cream cheese or extra heavy cream.
Q5: What sides go well with this?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.