This Beef & Parmesan Tortellini recipe is the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and comforting. Imagine tender tortellini tossed in a rich, meaty sauce and topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s a dish that’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet indulgent enough for a weekend treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Comfort Food Classic: A hearty, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Full ingredient list and measurements below.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
To the skillet with the beef, add marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Sauce
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy, meaty sauce.
Step 5: Add Parmesan
Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the top and gently stir until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, grate Parmesan fresh from the block.
- Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Meat Swap: Use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef.
- Cheese Upgrade: Mix in shredded mozzarella for an extra cheesy dish.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Pair this tortellini with a fresh green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine, like Chianti, perfectly complements the flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of cream to prevent dryness.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! Just follow the package instructions for cooking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the tortellini in advance. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.
3. Is there a vegetarian version?
You can skip the beef and add more vegetables or use plant-based ground meat.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
Beef & Parmesan Tortellini is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor—perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation!
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Beef & Parmesan Tortellini
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Beef & Parmesan Tortellini dish combines tender, savory ground beef with soft, cheesy tortellini, all enveloped in a creamy, Parmesan-rich sauce. It’s a quick and hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting dinner treat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 package (10 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini:
- Boil tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Make the Sauce:
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add cooked tortellini to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 95mg