If you’re looking for an easy yet flavorful dinner that’s sure to please the whole family, Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake should be at the top of your list. This deliciously creamy and cheesy bake features perfectly cooked cheese tortellini, savory ground beef, marinara sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and comforting that can be prepared in no time.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through each step of making Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake, from preparing the ingredients to baking the final dish to perfection. Whether you’re serving this for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s bound to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake
This dish combines the best of all worlds: pasta, cheese, savory beef, and rich sauce. The creamy marinara sauce complements the soft tortellini, and the ground beef adds a hearty, savory depth to the dish. With mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses melted to perfection on top, every bite offers the ultimate comfort food experience.
Plus, this dish is easy to customize. You can make it your own by adding veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, or even swapping out the ground beef for chicken or turkey. The rich, cheesy flavor and the delicious mix of textures make Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake a must-try for any pasta lover.
Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake
Before we dive into the instructions, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this mouthwatering dish:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
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1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create a well-balanced meal that’s hearty, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of beef and cheese pairs wonderfully with the softness of the tortellini and the rich, creamy sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the beef to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
This step is essential to add the savory beef flavor to the dish. It’s also the first step in building the rich, meaty base of the Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake.
Step 2: Boil the Tortellini
While the beef is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, which typically takes around 3-5 minutes.
Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside. It’s important not to overcook the tortellini, as it will continue to cook in the oven during the baking process.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine the ingredients into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This sauce is the key to making the Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake creamy and flavorful. The heavy cream adds richness, while the marinara sauce provides a tangy, savory base. The garlic powder and Italian seasoning bring depth to the sauce, giving it that classic pasta bake flavor.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together! In a large baking dish, combine the cooked tortellini, browned ground beef, and prepared sauce. Stir everything together to ensure that the tortellini is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. These cheeses will melt beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, bubbly, cheesy crust that everyone will love.
Step 5: Bake the Tortellini
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
This step is where the magic happens—the sauce thickens, the cheese melts, and the flavors meld together to create a dish that’s warm, comforting, and irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Slice the dish into individual portions and serve hot. The cheesy, meaty goodness of this dish will be a hit with everyone at the table!
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake
While the recipe is fairly straightforward, here are a few tips to ensure that your Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake turns out perfectly every time:
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Use high-quality marinara sauce: The marinara sauce is a key component of this dish, so choose a high-quality sauce that you enjoy. A good sauce can elevate the entire dish.
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Don’t overcook the tortellini: Since the tortellini will bake in the oven, it’s important not to overcook it during the boiling step. A little bite to the pasta will help it hold its shape and texture during baking.
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Make it ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook.
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Customize the recipe: Feel free to add vegetables to your Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake for extra flavor and nutrients. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would work great in this dish.
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Freeze for later: If you have leftovers or want to make a double batch, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
Nutritional Information
While Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake is undeniably delicious, it’s also a filling dish that packs in some calories. Here’s an approximate breakdown for a serving (based on 6 servings per recipe):
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Calories: 450
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Fat: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 32g
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Protein: 23g
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Fiber: 2g
These values can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use, so be sure to check the labels for more accurate information.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you love Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake, you’re in for a treat with these other cheesy pasta bakes and comfort food recipes:
Each of these recipes offers a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich, creamy Alfredo or a meaty pizza-inspired pasta, these dishes are the perfect way to enjoy a cozy meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake
1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, frozen cheese tortellini works just as well. Simply boil it according to the package instructions before mixing it with the beef and sauce. Be sure not to overcook it, as it will continue baking in the oven.
2. How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can fully assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. You may need to add 5–10 extra minutes of baking time.
3. What other types of meat can I use?
Ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be substituted for ground beef. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before mixing with the tortellini and sauce.
4. Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container (without baking), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed until bubbly and golden.
Final Thoughts on Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake
In conclusion, Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake is an easy-to-make, comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of beef, cheese, and marinara sauce creates a hearty and flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just for a cozy night at home, this dish will surely become a go-to recipe in your meal rotation. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
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Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake: A Family Favorite Dinner
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake is the ultimate comfort food! With layers of cheesy pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy marinara sauce, this oven-baked dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
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1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
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Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large bowl, mix marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until combined.
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In a large baking dish, combine the cooked tortellini, beef, and sauce mixture. Stir to evenly coat.
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Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
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Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
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Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
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Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.
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Freezer-Friendly: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months.
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Meat Variations: Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based option.
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Cheese Options: Add ricotta for extra creaminess or use an Italian blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Cheesy Beef Tortellini Bake, baked pasta, weeknight dinner, creamy beef pasta