Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender tortellini, rich marinara, and gooey cheese in a simple, one-pan recipe. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with delicious flavors.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt and fresh-cracked black pepper
- 24 ounces marinara sauce (about 3 cups)
- 18-20 ounces refrigerated tortellini (uncooked, any variety)
- 1 and 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat the oven to 375°F. - Cook Meat and Onions:
Warm a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and the beef is mostly browned. Drain any excess fat. - Season:
Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 6-8 cracks of fresh-cracked black pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring well. - Combine Ingredients:
Stir in marinara sauce, uncooked tortellini, and a little more than half of the shredded mozzarella. Mix well. Top with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan. - Bake:
Cover the skillet tightly with foil or a lid. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. - Check and Broil:
Remove the foil or lid. The cheese should be melted, the tortellini tender, and the sauce bubbling. Test a tortellini from the middle to ensure all are fully cooked. If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes to lightly brown the top, watching carefully to avoid burning. - Serve:
Remove the skillet from the oven and let rest for 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil for garnish. Serve and enjoy!
Nutrients
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 493 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Protein | 37 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| – Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| – Polyunsaturated Fat | 1 g |
| – Monounsaturated Fat | 4 g |
| – Trans Fat | 0.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 103 mg |
| Sodium | 1162 mg |
| Potassium | 649 mg |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Vitamin A | 706 IU |
| Vitamin C | 9 mg |
| Calcium | 314 mg |
| Iron | 5 mg |
This baked tortellini dish is sure to become a family favorite with its simple preparation and incredible flavor!
The Origins of Tortellini
Tortellini is a traditional Italian stuffed pasta originating from the Emilia-Romagna region, particularly Bologna and Modena. The small, ring-shaped pasta is typically filled with a mixture of meat, cheese, or vegetables and served in broth or with a rich sauce. In this recipe, the tortellini are combined with marinara and cheese for a baked dish that highlights their texture and flavor. Baked tortellini dishes have gained popularity worldwide as a quick, comforting meal that’s simple to prepare yet satisfying.
What Makes This Dish Special?
- Layered Flavors:
The combination of ground beef, onions, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a robust meat sauce that perfectly complements the tender tortellini. - Cheesy Goodness:
Melted mozzarella and Parmesan add a creamy, gooey texture that ties the dish together. The golden-brown top achieved by broiling adds both flavor and visual appeal. - One-Pan Convenience:
By using an oven-safe skillet, this dish transitions seamlessly from stovetop to oven, reducing cleanup and simplifying the cooking process. - Crowd-Pleasing Appeal:
This recipe is a hit with all ages, making it an excellent choice for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
Tips for Perfect Baked Tortellini
- Choose Fresh Tortellini:
Refrigerated tortellini works best for this recipe because it cooks quickly and maintains a tender texture. If using frozen tortellini, thaw it beforehand to ensure even cooking. - Season Generously:
Italian seasoning, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper enhance the flavor of the meat sauce. Don’t skimp on seasoning—it’s key to making the dish shine. - Use High-Quality Marinara:
A good marinara sauce elevates the dish. Choose one with natural ingredients and a robust flavor, or make your own for a personal touch. - Broil for a Crispy Top:
After baking, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes to lightly brown the cheese. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. - Let It Rest:
Allow the baked tortellini to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to portion.
Creative Variations
- Vegetarian Option:
Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a vegetarian-friendly version. - Spicy Twist:
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce for a kick of heat. - Creamy Sauce:
Stir in a dollop of ricotta or cream cheese to the marinara for a richer, creamier sauce. - Protein Boost:
Incorporate ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef for a different flavor profile. - Layered Casserole:
Assemble the ingredients in layers, like a lasagna, for a more structured presentation.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes:
Pair the baked tortellini with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. - Wine Pairing:
A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, complements the rich flavors of the meat sauce and cheese. - Toppings:
Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for extra flavor. - Make It a Feast:
Serve alongside other Italian-inspired dishes, such as bruschetta or Caprese salad, for a full-course Italian dinner.
Healthier Modifications
While this dish is indulgent, you can make it lighter with a few adjustments:
- Use Leaner Meat:
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content. - Whole-Grain Pasta:
Opt for whole-grain tortellini for added fiber and nutrients. - Lower Sodium Sauce:
Choose a marinara sauce with no added sugar or reduced sodium to make the dish heart-healthy. - Less Cheese:
Reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat versions to cut calories.
Why This Dish is a Family Favorite
- Kid-Friendly:
The cheesy, saucy goodness is always a hit with kids, making it a reliable choice for family dinners. - Easy to Customize:
With so many variations and toppings, you can adjust the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. - Great for Leftovers:
This dish reheats beautifully, making it a practical option for meal prep or next-day lunches. - Simple and Quick:
With minimal prep and one-pan convenience, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Conclusion
Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting hug in a skillet. Its combination of tender tortellini, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese delivers a delightful flavor and texture with every bite. This one-pan wonder is easy to prepare, versatile enough for creative adaptations, and perfect for serving to a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Serve it at family dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you need a dose of comfort food. Embrace the ease and deliciousness of baked tortellini and savor the joy of a meal made with love.
