Creamy Baked Tortellini with Ground Beef and Mozzarella Bliss

Introduction

Craving a creamy and cheesy pasta bake that’s easy to prepare? This Creamy Baked Tortellini with Ground Beef is packed with hearty flavors, tender tortellini, and a luscious creamy sauce topped with golden mozzarella. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings, this dish is sure to become a favorite in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. Stir in the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Add the marinara sauce and broth to the skillet, stirring to combine.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortellini

1. While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the tortellini and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked tortellini with the creamy beef sauce, mixing gently to coat evenly.
2. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Tortellini

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. For a golden-brown finish, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle dried oregano or parsley on top for a touch of flavor and color.
3. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Tortellini: It cooks faster and pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The addition of heavy cream makes this pasta bake extra luxurious.
• Cheesy Perfection: Topped with mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s a cheese lover’s dream.
• Family-Friendly: Easy to make and packed with flavors everyone will love.

Conclusion

This Creamy Baked Tortellini with Ground Beef is the perfect comfort food to warm you up on any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and cheesy topping, this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. Try it today for a cozy and delicious meal!