This cheesy beef tortellini is a warm hug on a plate! With tender pasta stuffed with flavorful beef and covered in a creamy cheese sauce, it’s comfort food at its best.
You can whip this up in no time, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Plus, who doesn’t love extra cheese? It’s like a dinner party in your mouth! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, providing a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken. Vegetarian? Try lentils or mushrooms for a similar texture!
Cheese Tortellini: Using refrigerated cheese tortellini makes this dish quick and easy. If you can’t find it, frozen tortellini is a great alternative. Whole wheat or gluten-free versions are available too if you need those substitutions.
Diced Tomatoes: I like to use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for extra depth. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, go for about 2 cups diced and add a little sugar to balance acidity.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought marinara or use homemade if you have some! For a twist, replace it with Alfredo sauce for a creamy version. Additionally, a splash of red wine can elevate the flavor.
How Do I Properly Sauté the Onions and Garlic?
Sautéing onions and garlic correctly makes a big difference in flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a medium skillet and add olive oil. Heat it up before adding the onions.
- Sauté onions on medium heat until they’re soft and translucent, usually about 3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic next and cook for only about a minute. Stir often to avoid burning, as garlic cooks faster than onions.
This gentle cooking releases their natural sweetness, enhancing your dish beautifully!
Cheesy Beef Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 package (9-10 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take approximately 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the beef, followed by 10 minutes for cooking the tortellini and combining everything. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir often, cooking until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it before continuing.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Next, stir in the drained diced tomatoes and add the dried Italian seasoning along with some salt and black pepper. Let everything cook together for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
While the beef mixture is cooking, prepare the cheese tortellini by following the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain them and set aside.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture and stir until combined. Add the cooked tortellini and gently toss them to coat evenly in the sauce.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is wonderfully melted and gooey.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your delicious dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, comforting meal!
There you have it! A hearty, cheesy dish where the tender tortellini meet flavorful ground beef and a rich tomato sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just follow the package instructions for cooking time, as it may take a couple of extra minutes compared to fresh. Ensure it’s cooked until al dente for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken work well. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils, chopped mushrooms, or even crumbled tempeh as a filling substitute.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and cook the tortellini separately ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them and combine!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
