Best Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce

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If you’re craving comfort food that’s indulgent, flavorful, and comes together with ease, then Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is the answer. This hearty dish brings together pillowy cheese-filled tortellini, a savory ground meat tomato sauce, and a bubbly, golden layer of melted cheese—all baked into one cozy, irresistible meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or family gathering, this meal hits the spot every single time.

Imagine the rich aroma of garlic and herbs filling your kitchen as the tortellini bakes in a luscious meat sauce, topped with perfectly melted mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s a dish that warms the soul, delivers a satisfying bite, and leaves you reaching for seconds. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, family-friendly meals, or a crowd-pleasing baked pasta, this one is a keeper.

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Ingredients for this Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or pasta sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef or sausage to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through.

Step 2: Add the Marinara and Simmer

Once the meat is cooked, pour in the marinara sauce and add the 1/2 cup of water. Stir everything together, reduce the heat to low, and let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Combine with Tortellini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe baking dish, add the uncooked cheese tortellini. Pour the meat sauce over the pasta and gently toss to combine everything evenly. Make sure the tortellini is well-coated in the sauce so it cooks properly in the oven.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the tortellini and sauce mixture. Then top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra savory, cheesy bite. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a few more cheese layers or mix in a dollop of ricotta.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, straight from the baking dish, alongside garlic bread or a simple green salad.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers of this Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce are just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead or meal prep dish.

• Refrigerator: Transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze before baking for optimal texture, but already-baked portions can be frozen too.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add a splash of water or sauce if it looks dry.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~520
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: ~780mg

Nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients and quantities used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of tortellini should I use?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini is best for this recipe. You can also use frozen, but make sure to thaw before baking or increase the baking time.

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well. Italian sausage adds a flavorful kick.

Is it okay to use homemade marinara?

Yes! Homemade marinara or Bolognese sauce adds a personal touch and deeper flavor.

Do I need to cook the tortellini before baking?

No, the tortellini cooks right in the sauce while baking, absorbing flavor and keeping cleanup easy.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Sure thing—mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be sautéed with the onions for added nutrition and texture.

How do I prevent the top from drying out?

Cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking to lock in moisture. Remove it at the end to brown the cheese.

What cheeses work best in this bake?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, but feel free to add provolone, fontina, or even ricotta for a richer dish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish ahead, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding an extra 5–10 minutes if cold from the fridge.

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