Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Hamburger and Tortellini Skillet is your new weeknight hero. It's a delicious fusion of comfort food classics, combining juicy hamburger with cheesy tortellini in a rich, savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum flavor. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both healthy and incredibly delicious. Get ready to impress your family with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 ounce) jar of your favorite pasta sauce (marinara, arrabbiata, etc.)
- 1 (9 ounce) package cheese tortellini (any filling works!)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the Aromatics: 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.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the pasta sauce, beef broth, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it gently simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Add the Tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet. Stir gently to combine everything. Continue to simmer until the tortellini is heated through and tender, about 5-7 minutes, or according to package directions.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this easy and delicious meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the ground beef, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This will help ensure the beef browns properly and doesn't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish depends heavily on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for a good quality pasta sauce and fresh herbs whenever possible.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Meatless Monday: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of crumbled vegetarian sausage or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Creamy Delight: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate would be around 400-500 calories, with a moderate amount of protein and carbohydrates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient choices.
This Hamburger and Tortellini Skillet recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy meals don't have to be complicated. It's a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Give it a try and let us know what you think! We'd love to see your creations! Remember to share your photos using #HamburgerTortelliniSkillet.