Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal that effortlessly brings everyone to the table, then you need to try this Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce Recipe. It combines tender cheese tortellini swimming in a rich meat sauce, all topped with gooey melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese that bakes to golden perfection. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners when you want something hearty and delicious, but simple enough to whip up without fuss. Every bite melts with layers of flavor that will quickly make it a family favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in this casserole. Together, they form a dish that is comforting, creamy, and delightfully cheesy.

• Cheese tortellini (20oz): The star of the dish, providing chewy, cheesy pasta pockets that soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Ground beef (1 lb): Adds a rich, meaty texture and hearty flavor base for the sauce.
• Pasta sauce (24oz jar): Brings vibrant tomato flavor and moisture that ties the dish together.
• Cream cheese (8 ounces, cubed): Gives a luscious creaminess that smooths out and enriches the meat sauce.
• Seasonings (salt, garlic powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning): Enhance the meat and sauce with layers of savory and aromatic notes.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1-2 cups): Melts beautifully, creating that classic stringy, bubbly, golden topping everyone loves.
• Grated parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, nutty finish that complements the mozzarella perfectly.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Begin by boiling your cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, making sure to cook it just until al dente. This ensures the pasta holds up in the casserole without becoming mushy during baking. Once cooked, drain it thoroughly and set it aside to prevent additional cooking.

Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish

While the tortellini cooks, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly. This step is essential so that your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly when serving, preserving the beautiful cheesy crust.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef. As it cooks, season with salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and a generous sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Cook the beef until it’s nicely browned with no pink remaining—this imparts deep flavor while setting the foundation for your sauce.

Step 4: Make the Meat Sauce

Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess grease for a cleaner-tasting sauce. Then, stir in the jar of pasta sauce along with the cubed cream cheese. Let the mixture simmer gently for a few minutes, stirring now and then, until the cream cheese has melted completely and blended into a luscious, creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Carefully fold the cooked tortellini into the creamy meat sauce, ensuring every pasta piece is well coated. Be gentle to avoid breaking the tortellini, as you want to maintain their perfect cheesy pockets throughout the casserole.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the tortellini and meat sauce mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure consistent baking. Then, generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese over the top. This cheese layer will create that irresistible bubbly, golden crust once baked.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place your casserole on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes. This baking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cheese to melt perfectly over the saucy pasta below.

Step 8: Broil for a Golden Top

For the finishing touch, switch your oven to broil and cook the casserole for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye to ensure the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly without burning. This step adds that perfect texture contrast and visual appeal.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove your Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce Recipe from the oven and let it cool just a bit before serving. This short rest allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes spooning easier. Then dig in and enjoy the cheesy, meaty goodness in every satisfying bite.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley adds a fresh burst of color and brightness that balances the richness of the casserole. For an extra flavor pop, try a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple, crisp sides. A fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette, steamed broccoli or green beans, and warm, crusty garlic bread all complement and round out this hearty meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. You might also layer it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach between pasta layers for a colorful, nutrient boost. Leftovers can be reheated in small portions, making it great for meal prepping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy delicious homemade meals later without extra effort.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. For best results, cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil or placing into a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave individual portions with a lid for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to warm evenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just be sure to cook it according to package directions until al dente and drain well before combining with the sauce.

Is ground beef the only meat option?

Not at all! You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for different flavor profiles while maintaining that meaty richness.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and use a hearty vegetable marinara sauce, or add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is mild by default but can be customized to your tastes by adding red pepper flakes, hot Italian sausage, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve to enjoy fresh, bubbly cheese and warm flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner in the weeknight dinner game. It’s indulgent but approachable, rich but comforting, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving leftovers that keep tasting better, this casserole is sure to become one of your go-to favorites. Give it a try—you might just discover your new comfort food obsession!

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