Description
This Beef Parmesan Tortellini is a deliciously comforting dish featuring tender beef tortellini smothered in a rich beef sauce, creamy ricotta, and a blend of cheeses. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this baked pasta dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound beef tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the beef tortellini to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or 7-10 minutes for frozen tortellini.
- Once cooked, drain the tortellini in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse, as you want the starch to help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with the beef sauce. Gently stir until the tortellini is well coated with the sauce.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In a large baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches), spread half of the tortellini and beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Drop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the tortellini layer, spreading it out as evenly as possible.
- Top with the remaining tortellini and beef mixture, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by the remaining grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it does not touch the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve.
Notes
- Garnish the Beef Parmesan Tortellini with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes