Easy Beefy Tortellini Bake: One-Pan Comfort (Print Version)
Hearty beef and cheesy tortellini baked in a rich tomato sauce. This easy one-pan dish delivers maximum comfort with minimal cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
03 -
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
→ The Saucy Embrace
05 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
06 -
1 1/2 cups beef broth
07 -
1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
08 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
09 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Cheesy Comfort & Pasta
10 -
1 (19 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
11 -
2 cups shredded low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese
12 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef and 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. Cook, breaking up the beef, until browned and the onion is softened, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
02 -
Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. This builds the base for your Easy Beefy Tortellini Bake: One-Pan Comfort.
03 -
Pour in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes and 1 1/2 cups beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
04 -
Stir in 1 (19 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini directly into the simmering sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and has absorbed some of the delicious sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
05 -
Remove the skillet from heat. Evenly sprinkle 2 cups shredded low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the tortellini and sauce. This cheesy layer is key to the "Easy Beefy Tortellini Bake: One-Pan Comfort."
06 -
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Alternatively, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
07 -
Let your Easy Beefy Tortellini Bake: One-Pan Comfort rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and prevents the tortellini from falling apart. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a handful of fresh spinach or chopped bell peppers along with the crushed tomatoes. They'll wilt down beautifully into the sauce.
02 -
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth if needed.
03 -
Substitution: Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add extra veggies like mushrooms and zucchini.
04 -
Serving Suggestion: This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and some crusty garlic bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large oven-safe skillet (12-inch)
02 -
cutting board
03 -
chef's knife
04 -
measuring cups
05 -
measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 565 kcal
Total Fat: 28 g
Total Carbohydrate: 40 g
Protein: 36 g