Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole With Meat Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp sugar
2 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Casserole:
1 (16 oz) package frozen cheese tortellini (or fresh tortellini)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup chopped fresh spinach (optional)
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, sugar, dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Prepare the Tortellini:
Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with the meat sauce. Gently fold in the ricotta cheese and chopped spinach, if using.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or similar oven-safe dish.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake the Casserole:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
For a golden, bubbly top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 450 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings) | Servings: 6