Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce

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This Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is pure comfort in a casserole dish. It’s a bubbling blend of tender cheese-stuffed tortellini layered with a rich, hearty meat sauce and crowned with melted mozzarella. With every bite, you get the perfect harmony of savory ground beef, tangy marinara, creamy cheese, and golden-baked goodness. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this dish is guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.

What makes this tortellini bake stand out is its simplicity paired with restaurant-quality flavor. Using store-bought tortellini and a few pantry staples, you can whip together a crowd-pleasing dinner in under an hour. It’s the kind of meal that invites second helpings, with leftovers that taste just as good (if not better) the next day.

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Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 20 oz cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce

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Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft—about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried basil, oregano, and season with salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5–10 minutes to deepen the flavor.

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Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

While the meat sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Tip: If using frozen tortellini, no need to thaw—just boil a minute or two longer than fresh.

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Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Spoon a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish. Add the cooked tortellini and spread it out evenly. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the pasta, making sure it’s well coated.

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan.

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Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a fresh pop of flavor.

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

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Storage Instructions

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Refrigerator:
Store any leftover Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.

Freezer:
You can freeze this dish either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45–60 minutes (uncover the last 15 minutes).

To freeze leftovers, let them cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~520
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 960mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well. Just add a few extra minutes to the boiling time.

2. What’s the best type of meat for the sauce?

Ground beef is classic, but Italian sausage (mild or spicy) adds more flavor. You can also use ground turkey or a mix.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. Is there a vegetarian version?

Yes! Just skip the meat and use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.

5. What cheeses work best for topping?

Mozzarella is great for meltiness, but feel free to mix in provolone or fontina for added flavor.

6. How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking, then uncover for the last 10–15 minutes to brown the top.

7. Can I use homemade sauce instead of jarred?

Definitely! Use your favorite homemade marinara or meat sauce to make it even more special.

8. How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Add a splash of marinara or water before reheating and cover loosely with foil in the oven, or microwave covered with a damp paper towel.

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