Hearty Beef Tortellini

Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner: a delightful skillet tortellini with ground beef! This comforting Italian-inspired meal combines tender cheese tortellini, savory ground beef, and a rich, robust tomato sauce, all crowned with gooey melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a true one-pan wonder that delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy evenings when you crave a hearty, homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine a warm, satisfying dinner that brings the whole family together, eager for second helpings. This recipe promises just that – a quick, delicious, and incredibly satisfying experience that will earn a permanent spot in your culinary rotation.

This simple skillet masterpiece takes all the shortcuts, utilizing readily available ingredients like refrigerated tortellini, a can of flavorful tomato sauce, concentrated tomato paste, and a blend of aromatic seasonings. The result is a luxurious meat sauce that perfectly coats each delicate tortellini, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. What makes this dish even better is its versatility and the fact that leftovers are just as delicious, if not more so, the next day! It’s an ideal solution for meal prepping or simply ensuring you have a fantastic lunch ready to go. Whether you’re feeding a small family or a larger gathering, this recipe scales beautifully, promising a satisfying meal every time.

If you’re a fan of easy, comforting pasta recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimum effort, then this skillet tortellini with ground beef is about to become your new obsession. It’s a complete meal in itself, requiring only one pan, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your delicious creation. From its rich, savory meat sauce to the perfectly cooked tortellini and melted cheese, every bite is a testament to simple, wholesome cooking done right.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Easy Tortellini with Ground Beef Recipe

There are countless reasons why this tortellini and ground beef skillet meal will quickly become a cherished family favorite. Its ease of preparation and incredible flavor profile make it stand out:

• **Effortless One-Skillet Preparation:** Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans! This entire dish comes together in a single large skillet right on your stovetop, drastically reducing cleanup time. This convenience is a game-changer for busy weeknights.
• **Perfect for Any Crowd:** Whether you’re hosting a casual BBQ, a lively party, or contributing to a potluck, this hearty tortellini bake is a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to double or triple the recipe to feed a larger group, ensuring everyone gets a generous, satisfying portion.
• **Budget-Friendly & Accessible Ingredients:** You don’t need exotic components for this recipe. Simple, everyday ingredients from your local grocery store are all it takes. This makes it an incredibly economical choice without compromising on taste or quality.
• **Highly Versatile and Adaptable:** This casserole serves as an excellent base for your culinary creativity. Feel free to add your favorite seasonings, different types of cheese, or even incorporate extra vegetables to customize it to your family’s preferences.
• **No Oven Required:** On warm days, turning on the oven can heat up your whole kitchen. This stovetop recipe keeps your home cool while still delivering a warm, comforting meal. It’s perfect for all seasons!
• **Delicious Leftovers:** Unlike some dishes that lose their appeal the next day, this tortellini and ground beef only gets better with time. The flavors meld and deepen, making lunch the next day something to truly look forward to.

📝 Essential Ingredients for Your Skillet Tortellini

Crafting this flavorful dish requires a handful of common ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or refrigerator. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this amazing meal:

📋 Ingredient Notes and Tips

• **Tortellini:** For this recipe, refrigerated tortellini is highly recommended. Its fresh pasta texture cooks perfectly in the sauce without becoming mushy, offering a delightful chewiness. While frozen tortellini can be used, ensure it is fully thawed beforehand to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.
• **Mozzarella Cheese:** Fresh mozzarella, shredded by hand, will give you the best melt and flavor. However, pre-shredded mozzarella works just as well for convenience. Its mild, milky flavor and incredible melt factor are essential for the creamy, cheesy topping.
• **Olive Oil:** A good quality olive oil is crucial for sautéing the onions and ground beef, providing a foundational layer of flavor to the dish.
• **Onion:** One medium onion, roughly chopped, adds a sweet and savory aromatic base to the meat sauce, developing a deeper flavor as it caramelizes.
• **Ground Beef:** I prefer using lean ground beef (90/10 ratio) to minimize excess grease. However, any fat percentage works; just be sure to drain any rendered fat after browning to keep the sauce from becoming oily.
• **Tomato Paste:** This concentrated tomato product (one 6-ounce can) is key to building a rich, deep tomato flavor in your sauce. It adds body and intensifies the tomato essence.
• **Sugar:** A touch of sugar (one tablespoon) is added to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce, creating a perfectly rounded flavor profile that isn’t too tart.
• **Worcestershire Sauce:** This secret ingredient provides a wonderful umami depth and a savory complexity that elevates the ground beef and tomato sauce.
• **Garlic Powder:** For quick and consistent garlic flavor throughout the sauce. You can also substitute with fresh minced garlic for a bolder taste.
• **Dry Oregano:** A classic Italian herb that brings an authentic Mediterranean aroma and taste to the dish.
• **Salt & Pepper:** Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors. Adjust to your personal preference.
• **Tomato Sauce:** The backbone of our rich meat sauce. A 15-ounce can of plain tomato sauce creates a smooth and flavorful base.
• **Water:** Used to thin the sauce to the perfect consistency for cooking the tortellini directly in the skillet, infusing it with maximum flavor.

🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Tortellini Ground Beef

Creating this delicious skillet tortellini is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect meal every time:

1. **Sauté Onions and Beef:** Begin by placing a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to shimmer. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté them for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and fragrant. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it is no longer pink, ensuring it’s thoroughly browned. If using higher-fat ground beef, carefully drain any excess grease from the pan to avoid an oily sauce.
2. **Build the Flavor Base:** Reduce the heat slightly to medium. Stir in the tomato paste, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dry oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the spices to bloom and the tomato paste to deepen in color and flavor. This step is crucial for developing the richness of your sauce.
3. **Simmer the Sauce and Add Tortellini:** Pour in the can of tomato sauce and the measured water. Stir everything well to combine, ensuring no lumps of tomato paste remain. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, add the refrigerated tortellini directly into the simmering sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it cook for 7 minutes. This allows the tortellini to absorb the flavors of the sauce as it cooks through.
4. **Melt the Cheese and Serve:** After 7 minutes, remove the lid. Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the tortellini and sauce. Cover the skillet once more and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden. Uncover, and let the dish rest for a minute or two before serving hot. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

🥣 Essential Equipment for Your Culinary Adventure

To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need just a couple of standard kitchen items:

• **Cheese Hand Grater:** Ideal for freshly grating mozzarella cheese, which tends to melt smoother and taste better than pre-shredded varieties.
• **Large Skillet with Cover:** A deep, large skillet (preferably cast iron or heavy-bottomed) is essential as it’s where the entire meal comes together. A well-fitting lid is crucial for simmering the tortellini and melting the cheese effectively.

💡 Expert Tips for Perfect Results

For an even quicker version, simply brown your ground beef, then stir in your favorite store-bought marinara or pasta sauce along with the water, and finally, mix in the tortellini. This can shave off a few minutes without sacrificing much flavor.

• **Choosing Your Ground Beef:** Opting for lean ground beef (like 90/10) will result in a less greasy dish, which is often preferred. However, if you’re using a higher fat content beef, remember to drain any rendered fat thoroughly after browning. This step prevents the sauce from becoming oily and ensures a cleaner flavor profile.
• **Lid Alternatives:** If your large skillet doesn’t have a perfectly fitting lid, don’t fret! A piece of aluminum foil tightly secured over the top of the skillet will work just as well to trap the steam needed for cooking the tortellini and melting the cheese.
• **Enhanced Cheesiness:** Before serving, consider adding an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or even more mozzarella. A dash of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick for those who enjoy a little spice.
• **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Ensure your skillet is large enough to comfortably hold all ingredients, especially the tortellini and sauce. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a less desirable texture.
• **Taste and Adjust:** Always taste your sauce before adding the tortellini. Adjust salt, pepper, or sugar as needed to achieve your perfect balance of flavors.

🧺 Storage and Reheating Guidelines

This ground beef tortellini dish is fantastic for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers. Proper storage ensures its deliciousness for days to come:

**Refrigerate:** Leftover tortellini bake with ground beef can be stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure it cools down completely before transferring it to the container.

**Freezer:** This dish freezes beautifully for longer storage. Place cooled leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

**Reheat:**

• **Oven:** For larger portions, reheat the pasta dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly warmed through, typically 20-30 minutes. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
• **Microwave:** Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave. Use 50% power in 1-minute increments, stirring occasionally, until warm. This prevents the pasta from becoming tough or rubbery.
• **Stovetop:** For a skillet full of leftovers, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

🍽️ Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Your Skillet Tortellini

While this tortellini with ground beef is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a simple side can elevate the dining experience:

• **Air Fryer Garlic Bread** is a fantastic accompaniment. It offers that irresistible crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside texture and pungent garlic flavor without needing oven space, making it a perfect match for your stovetop meal.
• For a fresh and easy side, simply grab a bag of your favorite mixed green salad from the grocery store. Enhance it with a homemade dressing like this creamy Avocado Ranch Dressing for a bright contrast to the rich pasta.
• Every comforting meal deserves a sweet ending. Follow up your hearty tortellini with a simple yet delightful dessert like these decadent Buckeye Balls. Their peanut butter and chocolate goodness provides the perfect sweet counterpoint.

💭 Creative Twists and Delicious Variations

Don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe! Think outside the box and add your unique touch to make it truly your own:

• **Cheese Swaps:** While mozzarella is classic, feel free to swap it out for other shredded cheeses. Provolone, Monterey Jack, a Mexican cheese blend, or even a sharp cheddar can add a different flavor dimension.
• **Tortellini Alternatives:** If cheese tortellini isn’t your preference, try using spinach-filled, mushroom-filled, or chicken-filled tortellini for a delightful change.
• **Global Flavors:** For an adventurous twist, replace the tomato sauce with enchilada sauce and a dash of chili powder to transform this into a cheesy beef enchilada pasta bake! Top with cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.
• **Alternative Proteins:** Ground turkey or ground chicken can be excellent leaner alternatives to ground beef, offering a slightly different flavor while maintaining the hearty texture.
• **Fresh vs. Powdered Garlic:** Instead of garlic powder, use 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced. Add it to the skillet with the onions for a more pungent and fresh garlic aroma.
• **Herb Enhancements:** Swap out the dry oregano for a blend of Italian seasoning, or add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or rosemary at the end of cooking for brighter flavors.
• **Hidden Veggies:** Boost the nutritional value and add extra texture by incorporating chopped-up summer vegetables such as yellow squash, zucchini, bell peppers, or even a handful of fresh spinach directly into the skillet during the last few minutes of simmering.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

📣 More Delicious Recipes to Explore

If you love the ease and comfort of this tortellini bake, you’ll definitely want to check out these other fantastic recipes:

• If you’re a fan of incredible skillet meals, this Marry Me Chicken recipe is bound to become your new go-to. Juicy chicken simmers in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce, infused with all your favorite Italian seasonings for an unforgettable dinner.
• Another warm and hearty meal perfect for any night is an Easy Lasagna Soup. Made right in your crockpot, it captures everything you love about the taste of homemade lasagna without all the tedious layering and prep work.
• This casserole is perfect for those chaotic back-to-school nights. For more ideas to help you navigate this busy season, explore these Healthy After School Snacks that are both nutritious and delicious.
• Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes is a timeless comfort food combination that simply satisfies. Make it from scratch or cleverly use leftover mashed potatoes for a quick and heartwarming weeknight dinner.

More Tortellini Creations

• Can’t get enough of cheesy tortellini? You’ll absolutely adore Alfredo Tortellini Bake, which combines a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with tender tortellini and a blanket of melted cheese. Easily prepared in less than 30 minutes, it’s a dream come true for Alfredo lovers!
• This Instant Pot Tortellini Soup recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a comforting meal. Made with fresh pasta and an array of vibrant vegetables, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and incredibly versatile to suit your taste.

If you tried this incredible recipe and loved it, please consider leaving a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!

Tortellini Ground Beef

A delicious and comforting easy meal ready in 30 minutes for your family to enjoy. A great back-to-school casserole that no one will turn down.

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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 5 Servings
Calories: 522 kcal
Author: Amira

Ingredients

For the Tortellini and Cheese:

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (refrigerated recommended)
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 can tomato paste (6 ounces)
• 1 Tablespoon sugar
• 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 ½ teaspoon dry oregano
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
• 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)
• 1 ¼ cup water

Instructions

1. Place a large skillet on medium-high heat and pour in the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Mix in the tomato paste, sugar, Worcestershire Sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well for 1-2 minutes to combine thoroughly.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce and water, stirring well to ensure all ingredients are incorporated. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Add the tortellini to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for 7 minutes, allowing the tortellini to cook through and absorb the sauce flavors.
7. Uncover the skillet and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and continue to cook until the cheese melts and is bubbly, typically 2-3 minutes. Serve hot.

Notes

• Please check the nutrition disclaimer policy.

Nutrition

Calories: 522 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 37g |
Protein: 40g |
Fat: 23g |
Saturated Fat: 10g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 7g |
Trans Fat: 0.3g |
Cholesterol: 118mg |
Sodium: 1156mg |
Potassium: 428mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 6g |
Vitamin A: 326IU |
Vitamin C: 2mg |
Calcium: 356mg |
Iron: 5mg

This Skillet Tortellini with Ground Beef isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to simplify your cooking, savor rich flavors, and create memorable meals with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish promises satisfaction and comfort in every forkful. Enjoy the process, and delight in the delicious outcome!