Baked Tortellini

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Baked tortellini is a tasty dinner that’s quick to make. You mix cheese tortellini with meat sauce and veggies, then bake it with more cheese on top. This meal takes about 55 minutes to make and serves 6 people. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something filling.

You can change up this recipe to fit what you like. Try different types of tortellini or add extra veggies. The cheesy, saucy result is always yummy. Give it a try next time you’re looking for an easy dinner idea!

Exact Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this tasty baked tortellini:

• 1 (20-oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24-oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

You’ll also need a 9×13 baking dish and some cooking spray or oil to grease it. Most of these items are pantry staples, so you might already have many on hand. The fresh ingredients like spinach and cheeses really take this dish to the next level.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.

Brown the ground beef and onion in a large skillet. Drain the fat, then add garlic and cook for another minute.

Mix in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and spices. Simmer for 5 minutes and season to taste. Add spinach and stir until wilted.

Spread half the sauce in the baking dish. Top with uncooked tortellini and dollops of ricotta. Pour the rest of the sauce over.

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake 5-10 minutes more until the cheese is bubbly and tortellini is tender.

Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. You can garnish with fresh herbs if you like.

This hearty meal comes together quickly and easily. You’ll have a delicious, cheesy pasta bake in no time!

Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations

You can easily change up this baked tortellini recipe to suit your tastes. Try these swaps:

• Use any tortellini flavor you like – cheese, meat, or veggie work great
• Swap ground beef for Italian sausage or ground turkey
• Replace spinach with kale or frozen mixed veggies

No tortellini on hand? Use regular pasta shapes like penne or rotini instead. Just cook them first before adding to the dish.

For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add extra veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms are tasty options.

Want it cheesier? Mix some cream cheese into the sauce or add extra mozzarella on top.

To make it spicier, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.

For a creamier sauce, stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half.

You can also try different cheeses like fontina or provolone in place of the mozzarella.

Remember, these are just ideas. Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Use frozen tortellini to save time. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

For a veggie version, swap the ground beef for mushrooms or plant-based crumbles.

Mix up the cheese! Try using fontina or provolone instead of mozzarella for a new twist.

Make it spicier by adding more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños.

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. For larger amounts, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

You can freeze this dish too! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For a crunchy top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.

Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.