Name: Beef Parmesan Tortellini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beefa; 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Beef Parmesan Tortellini is a rich, hearty, and comforting dish that combines tender beef with cheesy tortellini, all smothered in a savory Parmesan sauce. This delicious meal is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend dinners, offering a satisfying balance of flavors with minimal effort. The combination of savory beef, soft pasta, and creamy Parmesan sauce makes this dish a family favorite that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Parmesan Tortellini is the ultimate comfort food. The beef adds richness and flavor, while the tortellini gives you that soft, pillowy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy Parmesan sauce. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without requiring hours of preparation. It’s a great way to enjoy a cozy, cheesy pasta meal that’s both filling and flavorful, and it’s perfect for serving as a quick and easy dinner any night of the week.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 package (9 oz) refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Make the sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combine the tortellini and beef mixture: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the sauce. Let everything simmer together for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side for sprinkling.
Enjoy: Enjoy your Beef Parmesan Tortellini hot and fresh!

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy Beef Parmesan Tortellini: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Veggie Additions: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the beef and sauce mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Cheese Variations: Mix in other cheeses, such as mozzarella or ricotta, for a different flavor profile. You can also sprinkle mozzarella on top and broil for a cheesy, baked version.
Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation of the dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Beef Parmesan Tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through.

Beef Parmesan Tortellini

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as frozen tortellini may take a little longer to cook.

2. Can I use a different kind of meat?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor. For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for more vegetables or a plant-based protein.

3. How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten up the dish, you can use a lower-fat cream or substitute it with half-and-half or milk. You can also use reduced-fat cheese for a healthier version.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stovetop, adding a little extra cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze Beef Parmesan Tortellini. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in a skillet or oven until hot.

6. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the beef mixture. Simply sauté them with the onion and garlic to incorporate them into the dish.

7. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the beef and vegetables in a slow cooker and add the sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then add the cooked tortellini at the end and stir. This will help the flavors develop even more!

8. How can I make this dish spicier?

To make it spicier, add some red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño to the sauce, or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

9. Can I use a store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly in this dish. If you want to elevate the flavor, add some Italian seasoning, garlic, or a splash of red wine to the store-bought sauce.

10. Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Yes! While tortellini is ideal, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Just be sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions.

Conclusion

Beef Parmesan Tortellini is a rich, comforting dish that brings together the delicious flavors of beef, pasta, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. With minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s full of flavor and satisfaction. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or mix in your favorite variations, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness with every bite!