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Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 114 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce is a comforting and hearty Italian-inspired dish featuring tender cheese tortellini baked in a rich ground beef and tomato cream cheese sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, combining creamy, cheesy flavors with a satisfying meat sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 (20 oz) container of refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
  • seasoning to taste (salt, garlic powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning)

Meat and Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 (24 oz) jar of pasta sauce

Dairy

  • 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  3. Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Season with salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Cook until no pink remains, breaking it up as it cooks.
  4. Combine sauce with cream cheese: Drain excess grease from the beef. Stir in the jar of pasta sauce and cubed cream cheese. Simmer gently for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is well combined.
  5. Toss tortellini with sauce: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently toss to coat with the meat sauce mixture.
  6. Assemble casserole: Transfer the tortellini and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese over the top.
  7. Bake: Place the casserole in the center rack of the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Broil for browning: Switch the oven setting to broil and continue baking for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese on top turns golden brown.
  9. Serve and enjoy: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this casserole on its own, or pair with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat sauce.
  • Use part-skim mozzarella for a lighter option.
  • Fresh tortellini can be used instead of refrigerated or frozen if desired.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave for up to 3 days.
  • Adding fresh basil or parsley on top before serving adds a fresh flavor and color.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Find it online: https://jessicasrecipes.com/cheesy-baked-tortellini-casserole-recipe/