Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce is a comforting dish that combines tender ground beef, cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This easy, weeknight-friendly meal is sure to be a hit with the whole family, offering both comforting flavors and satisfying textures. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Season and Simmer: Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add Parmesan and Tortellini: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the creamy sauce. Let the tortellini cook in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
- Add Spinach (Optional): If using spinach, stir it into the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Browning the Beef: Make sure to brown the beef thoroughly for the best flavor. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Tortellini Cooking: Be careful not to overcook the tortellini, as it can become mushy. Keep an eye on it and cook until just tender.
- Parmesan Cheese: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Variations
- Chicken Tortellini: Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Mushroom Tortellini: Add sliced mushrooms when cooking the onion for an earthy flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a vegetarian option.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir complements the creamy sauce and beef well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the beef ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, then reheat and add the tortellini when ready to serve.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce. You can also stir in a bit more Parmesan cheese to help thicken it.
Can I Use Half-and-Half Instead of Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.
Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of tender tortellini, flavorful beef, and a creamy Parmesan sauce is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Gather your ingredients, cook it up, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious pasta dish!
Happy Cooking!