Name: Beefy Cheesy Tortellini Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 20 oz refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups marinara sauce; 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

I make this Beefy Cheesy Tortellini Bake when I want something hearty, comforting, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table. Tender cheese-filled tortellini are tossed with savory ground beef and rich marinara sauce, then baked under a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s a simple oven-baked pasta dish that feels cozy and filling every time I serve it.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

20 oz refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini

1 lb lean ground beef

1 small yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 cups marinara sauce

1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

I cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until just al dente, then drain and set it aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, I cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. I drain any excess grease if needed.

I add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.

I stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper. I let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.

I gently fold the cooked tortellini into the sauce until everything is well coated.

I transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

I sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan.

I bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

I let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if I like.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: Approximately 470 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground beef for Italian sausage for a slightly spicier flavor. If I want to lighten it up, I use ground turkey instead.

When I want to add more nutrition, I stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini before baking. For extra cheesiness, I mix a little ricotta into the pasta before transferring it to the baking dish.

If I enjoy a bit of heat, I add red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy marinara.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When I want to reheat a portion, I microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through.

If I’m reheating a larger portion, I cover the baking dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until hot. I sometimes add a small splash of water or marinara sauce before reheating to keep it from drying out.

I also freeze this bake for up to 2 months. I let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini without thawing it first?

I cook frozen tortellini directly from frozen according to the package instructions. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand.

Can I assemble this dish ahead of time?

I assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready to bake, I may add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What type of marinara sauce works best?

I use my favorite store-bought marinara or homemade sauce. I prefer one with a rich tomato flavor and balanced seasoning.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

I make sure to cook the tortellini just until al dente. Since it continues cooking in the oven, slightly firm pasta gives the best texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

I use gluten-free tortellini and double-check that my marinara sauce and seasonings are certified gluten-free to adapt this recipe.

Conclusion

I find this Beefy Cheesy Tortellini Bake to be the ultimate comfort food that’s both simple and satisfying. With tender pasta, savory beef, and layers of melted cheese, it’s a dependable dish I can serve for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep. Every time I make it, it delivers that warm, homestyle flavor I crave without complicated steps.

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