Herb-Infused Baked Tortellini with Beef and Cheesy Topping

Introduction

Looking for a comforting pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor? This Herb-Infused Baked Tortellini with Beef is a delicious one-pan dinner featuring tender tortellini, savory ground beef, a rich tomato sauce, and a cheesy, golden topping. Perfect for weeknights or family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe will satisfy everyone’s cravings. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• Salt to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Cheesy Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano or parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 4-5 minutes).
5. Stir in Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Pour the marinara sauce and broth into the skillet, stirring to combine.
2. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 7-10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the tortellini and cook until just al dente according to the package instructions.
3. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked tortellini with the beef sauce. Mix gently to coat the tortellini evenly.
2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Tortellini

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
2. For a crispy, golden topping, broil on high for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle dried oregano or parsley over the top for a fresh burst of flavor.
3. Serve warm with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Tips for Success

• Boost the Flavor: Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for a richer, deeper flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the sauce for a slight kick.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheese Lover’s Dream: The combination of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan creates a gooey, flavorful topping.
• Herb-Infused Flavor: Italian seasoning and oregano add a delightful herbal aroma.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup for maximum flavor and satisfaction.

Conclusion

This Herb-Infused Baked Tortellini with Beef is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with cheesy, meaty goodness and bursting with herbaceous flavor, it’s a dish that will bring everyone to the table. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that’s sure to please!