Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce—a dish that brings together tender, cheese-filled pasta, a rich and hearty meat sauce, and a generous layer of gooey, melted mozzarella. Every bite is packed with savory flavors, making it the perfect family-friendly meal for any night of the week. Whether you’re craving something cozy after a long day or need a crowd-pleaser for a gathering, this baked tortellini is sure to impress.

What makes this dish truly irresistible is its combination of textures and flavors. The pillowy tortellini absorb the robust, tomato-based meat sauce, while the melted cheese creates that irresistible stretch with every forkful. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. Pair it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce

• 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or Italian sausage) until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes soft. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

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Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes since they will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

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Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom. Add the cooked tortellini and gently toss to coat. If using ricotta cheese, dollop spoonfuls over the pasta. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the top, ensuring everything is evenly covered.

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Step 4: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden hue.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the baked tortellini rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve hot with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftovers, let the baked tortellini cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If the pasta looks dry, add a splash of marinara sauce or water before reheating.

For longer storage, freeze the baked tortellini in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: ~25g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Fat: ~22g
• Saturated Fat: ~10g
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sugar: ~6g

Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. Can I use frozen tortellini?

Absolutely! Just cook it for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions before baking.

3. What other cheeses can I use?

Besides mozzarella and Parmesan, you can add provolone, fontina, or gouda for extra richness.

4. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Skip the meat and use a vegetable-based marinara sauce. You can also add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor.

5. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can swap tortellini for ravioli, penne, or even rotini, but tortellini’s cheese filling adds extra creaminess.

6. How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove it to let the cheese brown slightly.

7. Can I add extra protein?

Definitely! Try adding cooked Italian sausage, shredded chicken, or even crumbled tofu for more protein.

8. What can I serve with baked tortellini?

Garlic bread, a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of soup make great side dishes.

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