Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Ground Beef and Cheese Tortellini recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious blend of savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked tortellini, all coming together in a simple yet satisfying dish. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, and is easily adaptable to your taste preferences, making it one of the best recipes for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 ounce) jar of your favorite pasta sauce (marinara, arrabbiata, etc.)
- 1 (9 ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in your chosen pasta sauce, oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
While the sauce simmers, cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain well.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through, ensuring the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This delicious dish is perfect on its own, or served with a side salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – ricotta, mozzarella, or a blend would all be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled vegetarian sausage or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Spinach: Add a package of frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy recipe makes for a perfect quick dinner, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a crowd-pleaser, ideal for busy weeknights or a casual family dinner. Enjoy!