Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Beef and Cheese Tortellini recipe. Combining tender cheese-filled tortellini, savory ground beef, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, this dish is a quick and satisfying option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Beef and Cheese Tortellini
This recipe brings together rich, indulgent flavors and an easy preparation process. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes this recipe even more appealing.
- Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and cheesy tortellini are a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite seasonings or protein swaps.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: A creamy, savory sauce elevates this simple dish into something special.
Why This Recipe Works
This dish combines the tender bite of cheese tortellini with the robust flavor of ground beef and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Cooking the beef with onion and garlic builds a flavorful base, while the heavy cream and beef broth create a rich, silky sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Simmering the sauce ensures the flavors meld together, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this decadent meal:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini, cooked and drained: A tender, cheese-filled pasta that serves as the base of the dish.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds a savory, hearty element.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Enhances the flavor with sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic richness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a velvety, creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Adds depth and a subtle umami flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses the sauce with a nutty, cheesy richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a vibrant, fresh finish.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Cheese Tortellini
Follow these simple steps to create a comforting, restaurant-quality dish at home:
1. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and creamy.
2. Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and beef broth to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts into the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine with Tortellini
Add the cooked and drained cheese tortellini to the skillet, stirring gently to coat each piece in the creamy beef sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the tortellini through and allow the flavors to meld.
4. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the dish to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Add an extra sprinkle of black pepper or grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Creamy Beef and Cheese Tortellini
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and adds superior flavor compared to pre-grated options.
- Customize the Flavors: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Use High-Quality Tortellini: Fresh tortellini from the refrigerated section often has better texture and flavor than dried versions.
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it a bit longer or add a touch more Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy beef and cheese tortellini with simple sides to create a complete meal:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
- Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are excellent options to add a healthy side.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Chianti, complements the bold flavors beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! While cheese tortellini is ideal, you can use ravioli, gnocchi, or even penne for a slightly different twist.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version. Sautéed mushrooms are a great meat substitute.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as the cream sauce may separate when frozen. However, you can freeze the cooked beef mixture separately and add it to fresh tortellini and sauce later.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent lighter alternatives to ground beef.
Q: How can I add more vegetables?
A: Sauté spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the onion and garlic for added nutrition and flavor.
Q: Can I use a dairy-free alternative?
A: Yes! Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Beef and Cheese Tortellini is the perfect one-pan dinner for those nights when you crave something hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. The tender tortellini and savory beef sauce combine to create a dish that’s rich and satisfying, yet simple enough for any home cook to master.
Serve it with garlic bread and a crisp salad for a complete meal, and enjoy the comfort of homemade indulgence. Whether it’s a family dinner or a date night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it tonight and elevate your pasta game to a whole new level!
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Creamy Beef and Cheese Tortellini: A Decadent One-Pan Dinner
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
This creamy beef and cheese tortellini combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich Parmesan sauce for a quick, indulgent one-pan dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a hearty dish the whole family will love!
Ingredients
*Ingredients:**
– 12 oz cheese tortellini, cooked and drained
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. **Cook the Ground Beef:** In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
2. **Make the Sauce:** Add heavy cream and beef broth to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Combine with Tortellini:** Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the creamy beef sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
4. **Garnish and Serve:** Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Notes
**Tip:** Serve with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
**Chef’s Note:** For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20