Dive into a dish of Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce, where every bite combines the richness of a meaty tomato sauce with the gooey goodness of melted cheese and the tender chew of tortellini. This baked pasta dish is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or when you need a satisfying dish to warm you up.
A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Dish
This baked tortellini recipe elevates a simple pasta dinner into a robust meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re gathering around the table for a family meal, hosting a dinner party, or just need a comforting meal on a chilly evening, this dish delivers rich flavors and comforting textures.
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Serving: Serves 6-8
- Equipment: Oven, skillet, 9×13 inch baking dish
Recipe: Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef (or sausage), onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is thoroughly cooked and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Prepare the Tortellini: While the sauce simmers, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain the pasta and then return it to the pot.
- Combine and Layer: Mix the tortellini with the prepared meat sauce. Spread half of this mixture into the greased baking dish. Layer with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat with the remaining tortellini mixture and cheeses.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh basil over the baked casserole right before serving, if using, to add a touch of color and freshness.
Ready to Enjoy
Your Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is now ready to delight your taste buds! Serve this delicious, cheesy pasta dish hot from the oven and enjoy the melty, meaty, and pasta-filled goodness. It’s the perfect meal for any pasta lover looking for a hearty dish that combines classic Italian flavors in one easy-to-make casserole. Enjoy the simplicity of preparation and the complexity of taste that this dish offers.
