Baked Tortellini Recipe | Tortellini With Tomato And Meat Sauce

If you’re a fan of comforting pasta dishes loaded with cheesy goodness, this Baked Tortellini with Tomato and Meat Sauce is a must-try! Learn how to make the easiest and most flavorful baked tortellini, featuring a rich meat sauce and gooey cheese. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a warm, hearty meal.

Why You'll Love This Perfect Pasta Recipe

• Comforting & Hearty. Packed with savory tomato sauce, ground meat, and three kinds of cheese.
• Easy to Make. Ready in about 40 minutes with minimal prep time.
• Family-Friendly. A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Great for Leftovers. Perfect for meal prep or reheating the next day.

Whether you're making a quick dinner for your family or preparing a dish to impress guests, this Baked Tortellini recipe will deliver on flavor and comfort. Let’s dive into the recipe!

What Does Baked Tortellini Taste Like?

Baked Tortellini with Tomato and Meat Sauce is absolutely delicious! The combination of tender tortellini, rich meat sauce, and melted cheese makes for a dish that's indulgent and satisfying. It's the ultimate comfort food for pasta lovers.

Do You Boil Tortellini Before Baking It?

Yes, you typically boil tortellini before baking it. Boiling the tortellini ensures that it is cooked through and tender before it goes into the oven. Here's how to do it:

• Cook the Tortellini. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes, until they are al dente.
• Drain Well. Drain the tortellini thoroughly to remove excess water.
• Combine with Sauce and Bake. Mix the boiled tortellini with your sauce and other ingredients, then transfer to a baking dish and top with cheese before baking.

This step helps prevent the tortellini from being undercooked or dry when baking. However, if you’re using refrigerated or fresh tortellini, it may not need to be boiled for as long since it’s softer than frozen tortellini.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Cheese Tortellini- Use fresh or frozen tortellini.
• Ground Beef or Italian Sausage- Adds a savory and hearty flavor to the dish.
• Marinara Sauce- Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara.
• Onion- Diced finely for flavor.
• Garlic- Freshly minced for an aromatic touch.
• Mozzarella Cheese- Shredded for a gooey, cheesy topping.
• Parmesan Cheese- Adds a salty, nutty finish.
• Ricotta Cheese- Creates a creamy layer within the dish.
• Olive Oil- For sautéing the meat and onions.
• Italian Seasoning- Adds depth to the tomato sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)- For a little heat, if desired.
• Fresh Basil (Optional)- Chopped, for garnish.

How To Make Baked Tortellini

1. Preheat the Oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the Meat. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion and garlic until soft, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
3. Prepare the Sauce. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Cook the Tortellini. While the sauce simmers, cook the tortellini in a pot of boiling water according to package instructions. Drain well.
5. Assemble the Dish. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked tortellini, followed by dollops of ricotta cheese. Add more sauce and the remaining tortellini. Top with the rest of the sauce, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve. Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy your cheesy Baked Tortellini with Tomato and Meat Sauce!

Tips And Tricks

Making Baked Tortellini with Tomato and Meat Sauce is easy, but these tips will help ensure the best results:

• Cook the Tortellini Al Dente. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t overcook it while boiling.
• Use a High-Quality Marinara Sauce. For the best flavor, choose a marinara sauce you enjoy.
• Add a Creamy Element. Mix a little heavy cream into the sauce for an extra creamy texture.
• Make It Spicy. Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for a kick.

Variations

If you love this Baked Tortellini with Tomato and Meat Sauce but want to try different flavors, here are some delicious ideas:

• Vegetarian- Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
• White Sauce- Swap out the marinara for a creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Baked Tortellini- Add a layer of basil pesto between the tortellini and the sauce for a flavorful twist.
• Three-Cheese- Use a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and Gruyère for a cheesy upgrade.

What To Eat With Baked Tortellini

This baked pasta dish is filling on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make the meal even better. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic Bread- Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Caesar Salad- A classic pairing that adds a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables- Serve with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers.
• Antipasto Platter- Offer a selection of olives, cured meats, and cheeses as a starter.

How Long Does It Last?

Baked Tortellini with Tomato and Meat Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, this baked tortellini dish can be frozen! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

More Craveworthy Comfort Food

• Keto Stuffing
• Tamale Pie
• Keto Green Bean Casserole
• Shrimp And Corn Soup
• French Onion Soup

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