This delicious and easy dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, hearty, and comforting. With cheesy tortellini smothered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce and topped with melted mozzarella, this one-pan dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
- Boil Tortellini:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Cook the Meat:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef or Italian sausage.
- Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Marinara and Cream:
- Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream.
- Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
- Mix Tortellini and Sauce:
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the sauce.
- Stir gently to coat the tortellini evenly with the sauce.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the tortellini.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Tortellini: Fresh tortellini cooks faster and has a better texture than dried tortellini. However, if you only have dried tortellini, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Meat Options: Ground beef, Italian sausage, or a mix of both work well in this recipe. For a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone, Parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses would be delicious alternatives to mozzarella.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be sautéed with the onions and garlic.
Variations
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to give the dish a kick.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in additional heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese for an extra creamy sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini and check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or cream if the sauce becomes too thick.
This easy cheesy tortellini skillet is a perfect solution for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a hearty and satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The creamy, cheesy goodness paired with the tender tortellini and savory meat sauce is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish and savor the comfort it brings to your dinner table.
Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to share your experience! If you loved this recipe, share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!
