Name: Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Savory Meat Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce; 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

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This Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Savory Meat Sauce is the kind of comforting, family-style dinner I love to pull out on busy weeknights or slow, cozy weekends. I combine tender cheese tortellini with a rich, hearty meat sauce and finish it all with layers of melted mozzarella and parmesan. Every bite is warm, satisfying, and packed with classic Italian-inspired flavors.

Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Savory Meat Sauce

Ingredients

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

20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce

1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

I start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Next, I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until just al dente. I drain it and set it aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, I add the olive oil and sauté the diced onion for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Then I stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

I add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If there is excess grease, I drain it off.

After that, I stir in the marinara sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I let the sauce simmer for 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors can blend together.

I gently fold the cooked tortellini into the meat sauce until everything is evenly coated.

To assemble, I spread half of the tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish. I sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella and half of the parmesan over the top. Then I layer on the remaining tortellini mixture and finish with the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan.

I bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If I want a golden top, I broil it for 2 to 3 minutes at the end.

Once it comes out of the oven, I let it rest for 5 minutes and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Each serving contains approximately 520 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage when I want a slightly different flavor. For a vegetarian version, I leave out the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach instead.

If I want an extra cheesy casserole, I mix a spoonful of ricotta into the layers. For a little heat, I add red pepper flakes to the sauce. I also like experimenting with different cheese blends such as provolone or an Italian cheese mix.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When I want to reheat a portion, I microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through.

If I am reheating a larger portion, I cover it with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly. If the pasta looks a bit dry, I add a small splash of water or extra marinara before reheating.

I can also freeze the fully assembled, unbaked casserole. I wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 2 months. When I am ready to bake, I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

I can use frozen tortellini, but I make sure to cook it according to package directions before mixing it with the sauce.

Can I assemble this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it a few hours in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until I am ready to bake.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?

I make sure to drain the diced tomatoes well and avoid overcooking the tortellini. Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking also helps it set properly.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

I can use gluten-free tortellini and double-check that the marinara sauce is certified gluten-free.

What can I serve with this casserole?

I like serving it with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Savory Meat Sauce is one of my favorite comfort meals. I love how simple it is to prepare and how reliably delicious it turns out every time. With its rich sauce, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese, it is a crowd-pleasing dish I can count on for both busy weeknights and relaxed family dinners.

📖 Recipe:

Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole with Savory Meat Sauce

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Halal

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Description

A comforting and hearty baked tortellini casserole made with tender cheese tortellini, rich savory meat sauce, and layers of melted mozzarella and parmesan for a satisfying Italian-inspired family dinner.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Cook tortellini in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Stir in marinara sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Fold cooked tortellini into the meat sauce until evenly coated.
Spread half of the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with 1 cup mozzarella and half of the parmesan.
Layer remaining tortellini mixture on top and finish with remaining mozzarella and parmesan.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for 2–3 minutes if desired for a golden top.
Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.