Irresistible Comfort: Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole
Looking for a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish to add to your dinner rotation? Look no further than our Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole! This indulgent yet simple recipe combines tender cheese-filled tortellini, savory marinara sauce, and layers of gooey cheese for a meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pack of frozen cheese tortellini (~20oz)
- 1 jar of marinara sauce (~24 oz)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- Seasonings based on your taste (i.e., garlic powder, salt, pepper, etc.)
Pro Tip: For a vegetarian version, you can omit the ground beef or substitute it with your favorite meat alternative.
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
- Prepare the Tortellini:
- Cook the frozen cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cooked tortellini, marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and your desired seasonings. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the foil from the baking dish and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite marinara sauce or tomato-based pasta sauce for this recipe. You can also add additional herbs and spices to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate diced vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach into the casserole for added nutrition and texture.
- Make it Spicy: For a kick of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the casserole mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the cheese tortellini with cauliflower gnocchi or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Use a low-carb marinara sauce or make your own keto-friendly tomato sauce using fresh tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs.
Low-Carb Version:
- Replace the cheese tortellini with shirataki noodles or spaghetti squash for a lower-carb alternative.
- Omit the marinara sauce and opt for a creamy Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
In conclusion, our Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. With layers of cheesy goodness and hearty flavors, it’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on a chilly evening, this casserole is a winner every time. Give it a try and savor the cheesy, comforting goodness in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly to ensure it heats through completely.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe? A: Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape instead of tortellini. Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli would all work well in this casserole. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the pasta you choose.