Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole With Meat Sauce

Introduction

Indulge in the comforting goodness of Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce, a satisfying and easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love. Combining creamy cheese tortellini, flavorful meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is a hearty and delicious meal perfect for any day of the week.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want a warm and filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies or add a twist with different seasonings, making it a versatile and customizable dish.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole With Meat Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 (20 ounces) container of refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (24 ounces) jar of pasta sauce
• 8 oz cream cheese (cubed)
• 1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated or shredded parmesan
• Seasoning to taste

Directions:

1. Boil the tortellini until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, seasoning with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cream cheese and pasta sauce to the beef, simmer until combined.
5. Toss in the cooked tortellini and mix well.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake for 20 minutes, then broil for a few more minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite sides.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole With Meat Sauce

Serve this casserole hot with a side of fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance out the rich and cheesy flavors. It’s a complete meal on its own but can also be paired with your favorite sides for a more substantial feast.

How to Store Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole With Meat Sauce

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Tips to Make Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole With Meat Sauce

• Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting the meat with ground turkey or chicken.
• Use different types of cheese for varied flavors, such as cheddar or provolone.
• Ensure the tortellini is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add in more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a flavorful meatless option.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought tortellini for this recipe? Yes, store-bought tortellini works perfectly and helps save time in the kitchen.
2. Can I freeze this casserole before baking? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and freeze it. Just allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
3. Can I substitute the cream cheese with another type of cheese? While cream cheese adds creaminess, you can swap it with ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a slightly different taste and texture.