Looking for a hearty meal that warms your soul? You’re in the right place! Baked Beef Tortellini combines tender pasta with rich beef and creamy sauce for a dish that both comforts and delights. I’ll share easy steps, handy tips, and exciting variations to make this dish your own. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this recipe fits any occasion. Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This baked beef tortellini dish brings together rich flavors of beef, cheese, and tomatoes, creating a warm and comforting meal perfect for family dinners.
- Easy Preparation: With simple cooking steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights while still delivering on taste.
- Versatile Ingredients: Using readily available ingredients means you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Impressive Presentation: The layers of cheese and garnished fresh basil create an eye-catching dish that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 12 oz beef tortellini, cooked according to package instructions
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
To make baked beef tortellini, use fresh and quality ingredients. The beef tortellini creates a hearty base. Ground beef adds flavor and richness. Crushed tomatoes give a nice, smooth sauce. Ricotta cheese makes the dish creamy and adds texture. Mozzarella and Parmesan bring a melty, cheesy top. Garlic, oregano, and basil add depth and aroma. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.
Optional Seasonings and Garnishes
You can add more flavor with extra herbs or spices. Try red pepper flakes for heat. A dash of Italian seasoning can elevate the taste. For garnishing, fresh basil leaves add a vibrant touch. You can also sprinkle more Parmesan on top before serving.
Nutritional Facts Overview
This dish is filling and provides good nutrition. Each serving has protein from the beef and cheese. Tortellini adds carbohydrates for energy. The crushed tomatoes offer vitamins. Ricotta adds calcium, which is good for bones. However, keep in mind the calorie count can be high due to cheese and meat. Adjust portion sizes based on your diet needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation and Cooking Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart as it cooks. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any extra fat.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute. Let the garlic get fragrant.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Sprinkle in dried oregano and basil. Add salt and pepper. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, mix the cooked tortellini with the tomato-beef sauce. Mix gently to coat the tortellini.
6. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Stir until smooth.
7. In the greased dish, layer half the tortellini mix first. Spoon the ricotta mix over it evenly.
8. Top this with the remaining tortellini mixture.
9. Sprinkle the rest of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
10. Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
11. After 25 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
12. Let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Important Cooking Times
– Preheat oven: 10 minutes
– Ground beef cooking: 5-7 minutes
– Simmering sauce: 5 minutes
– Total baking time: 35-40 minutes
Tips for Layering the Dish
– Start with half the tortellini as the base to create a solid foundation.
– Ensure you spoon ricotta dollops evenly for balanced flavor.
– Top with the remaining tortellini to lock in moisture and flavor.
– Finish with generous cheese to create a delicious, gooey topping.
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect Your Baked Beef Tortellini
To make the best baked beef tortellini, follow some key tips:
– Cook Tortellini Correctly: Always cook the tortellini just until al dente. This helps it hold its shape in the oven.
– Layer Wisely: Spread the tortellini evenly in the dish. This ensures every bite gets flavor.
– Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness. Sprinkle it on just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks make simple mistakes. Here are a few to avoid:
– Overcooking the Beef: Cook ground beef until browned, but don’t dry it out.
– Ignoring Flavor: Don’t skip the seasoning. Salt, pepper, oregano, and basil make a big difference.
– Skipping the Resting Time: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set.
Suggested Tools and Equipment
Having the right tools makes cooking easier. Here are some must-haves:
– Large Skillet: For browning the beef and mixing the sauce.
– 9×13 Inch Baking Dish: Perfect for layering and baking the tortellini.
– Mixing Bowls: Use them for combining the ricotta and cheese.
– Spatula: Essential for mixing and serving.
– Aluminum Foil: Helps keep the moisture in while baking.
By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can serve a baked beef tortellini that everyone loves. Enjoy cooking!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses for a more vibrant flavor in your dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Since the tortellini will bake in the oven, make sure to cook them just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Layering Technique: When layering the ricotta and tortellini, try to keep the layers even for a more aesthetically pleasing presentation and consistent flavor in every bite.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
Variations
Vegetarian Options for Baked Tortellini
If you want a meat-free dish, swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils. You can also use a mix of spinach and ricotta for a rich filling. This gives you a hearty meal without meat.
Alternative Cheese Combinations
Feel free to mix and match cheeses for your baked tortellini. Instead of ricotta, try cottage cheese for a lighter taste. For more flavor, add feta or goat cheese. You can replace mozzarella with gouda or provolone for a unique twist.
Add-in Suggestions
Want to make your dish even better? Add fresh or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also toss in cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp for extra protein. This makes the meal more filling and colorful.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Baked Beef Tortellini
To store leftover baked beef tortellini, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the tortellini to a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it. Just place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Freezing Tips and Timeline
If you decide to freeze your baked beef tortellini, it’s best to do this right after cooking. Use a freezer-safe container. Label it with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. For best results, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This helps maintain flavor and texture.
FAQs
How long to bake baked beef tortellini?
You should bake baked beef tortellini for 35 to 40 minutes. First, cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an extra 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the cheese get bubbly and golden.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini! Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the recipe. Frozen tortellini will work great in this dish. It saves time and still tastes good.
What sides pair well with baked beef tortellini?
Some great sides for baked beef tortellini include:
– A fresh green salad
– Garlic bread
– Steamed vegetables
– Roasted asparagus
– A simple caprese salad
These sides balance the richness of the tortellini and add extra flavor to your meal.
In summary, we explored the ingredients, instructions, and tips for baked beef tortellini. I shared ways to customize this dish with variations and storage advice. Paying attention to details can elevate your meal. Avoid common mistakes for better results. Remember to have fun while cooking and enjoy every bite. With this guide, you’re ready to impress at your next mea
