Baked Cheesy Tortellini Casserole
Are you ready to indulge in a mouthwatering dish that combines the comfort of cheesy pasta with the simplicity of a casserole? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create the ultimate Baked Cheesy Tortellini Casserole. This delightful recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or just treating yourself to a delectable meal.
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Let’s start with the key ingredients you’ll need:
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Frozen cheese tortellini | 1 package (about 20 ounces) |
| Marinara sauce | 1 jar (~24 ounces) |
| Ground meat | 1 pound |
| Grated mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Grated parmesan | 1/2 cup |
| Cream cheese (cubed) | 8 ounces |
| Seasonings (e.g., garlic powder, salt, pepper) | To your liking |
Directions:
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- Preheat the Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9″ x 13″ baking dish, ensuring that your casserole won’t stick.
- Cooking the Tortellini:
- Follow the package directions to cook the tortellini to al dente perfection.
- Drain the cooked tortellini and set it aside.
- Preparing the Meat Sauce:
- In a pan, brown the ground meat with your chosen seasonings.
- Drain any excess fat from the meat.
- Add the marinara sauce and cubed cream cheese to the pan.
- Simmer the mixture until the cream cheese is fully melted, creating a creamy and savory sauce.
- Assembling the Casserole:
- Add the cooked tortellini to the meat sauce.
- Gently stir the mixture to coat the tortellini evenly.
- Baking to Perfection:
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan over the top.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Garnish and Serving:
- Once the casserole is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.
- Serve the Baked Cheesy Tortellini Casserole warm, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Now that you have this irresistible Baked Cheesy Tortellini Casserole recipe in your collection, you’re ready to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. The combination of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked tortellini will have everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and savor every bite of this delightful dish.
