One-Pan Beefy Tortellini Bake Recipe

If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that brings together rich flavors and gooey cheese in one simple dish, you are going to love this One-Pan Beefy Tortellini Bake Recipe. It combines tender cheese tortellini with savory ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a luscious marinara sauce, all baked to perfection with melty mozzarella and Parmesan on top. This recipe is pure magic for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but hassle-free, making it an instant family favorite that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering straightforward ingredients is key to the charm of this recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, helping you create this delicious bake without any fuss.

• Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps cook the beef evenly without sticking.
• Ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this dish satisfyingly filling and rich.
• Small onion, diced: Brings a mild sweetness and depth when softened with garlic.
• Garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that wakes up every other ingredient.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil that ties the dish together with classic Italian flair.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing out the flavors perfectly.
• Marinara sauce: Provides a bright tomato base that is both tangy and savory.
• Beef broth: Adds moisture and deepens the beef flavor in the sauce.
• Cheese tortellini: The star pasta, stuffed with creamy cheese, creating wonderful pockets of softness inside the bake.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy goodness that blankets the dish beautifully.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a sharp, nutty finish with a golden crust.
• Fresh basil or parsley: Optional but highly recommended to brighten and finish the dish with a fresh, herbal note.

How to Make One-Pan Beefy Tortellini Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting the oven ready right away means your dish can go straight in after you’ve assembled it, saving time and ensuring everything cooks evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large oven-safe skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until fully browned. This step locks in the savory flavor and forms the meaty foundation for the bake.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and turns translucent, releasing its sweetness which balances the richness of the beef.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let these spices blend with the meat and onions, developing that iconic Italian-herb aroma we all love.

Step 5: Add Marinara and Broth

Pour the marinara sauce and beef broth into the skillet, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. This sauce will become a luscious base that binds the ingredients and adds tangy, savory depth.

Step 6: Incorporate the Tortellini

Stir in the cheese tortellini, ensuring each piece is well coated in the flavorful sauce. Cooking the tortellini in the sauce for about 5 minutes helps it absorb some of that delicious flavor.

Step 7: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the entire skillet. These cheeses melt and bubble, creating a beautifully golden crust that’s irresistible.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly, golden brown, and slightly crispy around the edges, signaling that your dish is ready.

Step 9: Rest Before Serving

Pop the skillet out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to settle and the bake to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve.

Step 10: Garnish and Enjoy

Finish with fresh basil or parsley if you like. This adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly complements the rich, cheesy beef tortellini below.

How to Serve One-Pan Beefy Tortellini Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are simple yet effective garnishes. Not only do they add vibrant color, but they also introduce a burst of fresh flavor that cuts through the richness, elevating every bite. You can also sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat if you crave a little spice.

Side Dishes

This One-Pan Beefy Tortellini Bake Recipe stands well on its own, but pairing it with light, crisp sides balances the meal perfectly. Consider a green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this bake family-style right out of the skillet for a cozy, communal feeling. For a fun twist, portion out into smaller individual ramekins before baking, making it perfect for sharing or meal prepping. You can also offer extra Parmesan and a drizzle of good quality olive oil at the table to personalize each plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, and the bake reheats wonderfully, making for an easy second meal full of comfort and satisfaction.

Freezing

To freeze, let the bake cool completely and transfer it into a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain its texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crisp cheese topping. Alternatively, microwave portions covered with a damp paper towel for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just increase the simmering time slightly in step 6 to ensure the tortellini cooks completely. Keep an eye on the texture so it doesn’t get too soft.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or extra vegetables like mushrooms and spinach. Just adjust seasoning and broth accordingly for the best flavor balance.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Definitely! Assemble the skillet up to step 7, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready, bake for a few additional minutes to ensure everything is heated through and bubbly.

What can I substitute for Italian seasoning?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, create your own by mixing dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. This combo will bring the same warm, herbal notes that complement the beef and tomato sauce perfectly.

Do I need an oven-safe skillet for this recipe?

Yes, using an oven-safe skillet simplifies this dish since you cook the beef and sauce on the stovetop, then bake it directly without transferring. If you don’t have one, transfer everything to a baking dish before adding cheese and baking.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Beefy Tortellini Bake Recipe is such a gem for anyone who loves cozy, cheesy meals without the fuss. Every bite is bursting with rich, satisfying flavors, and the ease of preparing it all in one pan makes it a total winner in the kitchen. I encourage you to try it out soon and discover how quickly it can become one of your go-to weeknight dinners. You won’t regret it!

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