If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dinner that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe is your new go-to. Packed with tender cheese tortellini, savory ground beef, and a rich marinara sauce all melted under a blanket of bubbly mozzarella and parmesan, every bite delivers satisfying textures and mouthwatering flavors. It’s surprisingly easy to pull together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners where everyone asks for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right in this dish is key, but don’t worry — everything is straightforward and works beautifully together to create a balanced and delicious meal. Each component adds an essential layer of flavor, from the zesty marinara to the creamy cheeses and subtly spiced beef.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that brings rich, savory depth to the sauce.
- 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz): Adds a bright, tangy tomato flavor that keeps the dish lively and fresh.
- 1 package refrigerated cheese tortellini (about 9 oz): Soft, cheesy pasta pockets that soak up all those delicious flavors.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, stretchable topping that everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkles of nutty, salty goodness that peak through the melted mozzarella.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle aromatic spice that enhances the savory notes of the beef and sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses the dish with a fragrant herbaceous touch.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives just a hint of heat to keep things exciting.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To perfectly season every bite.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish that brightens the dish.
How to Make Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cheesy masterpiece won’t stick, making cleanup easier and preserving that beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Build the Sauce
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. Drain out any excess fat for a lighter bake, then stir in the marinara sauce along with garlic powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to melt and mingle wonderfully.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
While your sauce simmers, cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until tender but still holding their shape. Drain them well so they don’t turn mushy in the bake.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Transfer the cooked tortellini to your prepared baking dish and pour the savory beef sauce on top. Stir everything gently so the pasta is evenly coated, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella followed by a hearty dusting of grated parmesan cheese over your pasta and beef mixture. This cheesy cover bakes into a golden, bubbling crust that’s impossible to resist.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is thoroughly melted, bubbly, and the edges have developed a delightful golden brown crispness.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes — patience here pays off by helping the flavors settle. If you want to take it up a notch, add a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and that aromatic herb essence.
How to Serve Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil amplify the freshness and presentation. You could also add a little cracked black pepper or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top for added texture and spice.
Side Dishes
This pasta bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or some roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for added veggies on the side. Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser to scoop up every last bit of sauce and cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a cozy, restaurant-style feel. Alternatively, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking to give your bake a crunchy topping that adds an irresistible contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully! Transfer it to a freezer-safe container before baking or freeze the leftovers after cooking. When stored properly, it can keep for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for best results. Adding a little extra cheese on top before warming up can refresh that cheesy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly according to the package instructions and make sure they’re well drained before combining with the sauce. The bake will still turn out delicious.
Is ground beef the only meat option?
Not at all. You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Just cook it thoroughly before mixing with your sauce and pasta.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite plant-based meat substitute. The marinara and cheese combo still provide plenty of hearty flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have marinara sauce?
Simple tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes can work as a substitute. Just season them with garlic, oregano, and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity before mixing with the cooked beef.
How spicy is this recipe with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle kick, but you can adjust the amount or omit them entirely based on your heat preference. The dish is still flavorful and satisfying without any spice.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta bake that brings everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied sighs. The Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe offers an easy way to enjoy a crowd-pleasing, delicious meal that feels special but comes together with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll earn a special spot in your recipe rotation, promising cozy dinners and happy tummies every time.
Print
Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A comforting and hearty Beefy Tortellini Pasta Bake featuring ground beef simmered in a flavorful marinara sauce, combined with cheese tortellini, and baked with a golden, bubbly cheese topping. Perfect for a family dinner with rich Italian-inspired flavors and a cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Beef Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 1 package refrigerated cheese tortellini (about 9 oz)
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare for baking the pasta casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef and Make Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat, then add the marinara sauce, garlic powder, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Cook Tortellini: While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes. Drain thoroughly once cooked to avoid excess moisture in the bake.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked tortellini with the beef and marinara sauce mixture. Stir gently to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta and sauce mixture, then top with grated parmesan cheese to add a creamy, golden cheesy crust when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges, indicating it is hot and ready to serve.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired for a fresh, aromatic touch. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, comforting beefy tortellini pasta bake.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the beef sauce can boost nutrition and flavor.
- Use fresh basil or dried oregano as alternative garnish options.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
