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Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 92 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce is a hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender cheese tortellini baked in a rich, creamy tomato-meat sauce topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this casserole combines simple ingredients into a satisfying, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 (20oz) container of refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini

Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 (24oz) jar of pasta sauce
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • Seasoning to taste (salt, garlic powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning recommended)

Toppings

  • 1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini: Boil the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
  2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
  3. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, seasoning it with salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Cook until fully browned and no pink remains.
  4. Make the Meat Sauce: Drain excess grease from the cooked beef. Stir in the jar of pasta sauce and cubed cream cheese. Simmer together for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is melted and sauce is blended smoothly.
  5. Combine Tortellini and Sauce: Gently toss the cooked tortellini into the meat sauce ensuring the pasta is well coated but not broken.
  6. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the tortellini with meat sauce into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese over the top.
  7. Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the center rack of the oven and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and flavors to meld.
  8. Broil for a Golden Top: Switch the oven setting to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from oven and let cool briefly before serving. Enjoy this cheesy baked tortellini casserole on its own or paired with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty garlic bread.

Notes

  • Using refrigerated tortellini reduces cooking time, but frozen can be used as well; adjust boiling times accordingly.
  • Season the meat sauce to your taste with herbs like basil or oregano for added flavor.
  • For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream to the sauce before baking.
  • Letting the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 430
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 23g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Find it online: https://emilyquickdinners.com/cheesy-baked-tortellini-casserole-with-meat-sauce-recipe/