Craving a comforting yet flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy tortellini with ground beef recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. This recipe offers a delightful blend of savory ground beef, perfectly cooked tortellini, and a luscious creamy sauce – a true winner for family dinners or a quick and easy healthy meal. Let’s dive into this simple yet impressive recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) jar of your favorite pasta sauce (marinara or arrabbiata work well)
- 1 (9 ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Get started:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Build the flavor:
- 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.
Create the sauce:
- Pour in your chosen pasta sauce and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it gently simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This step is key for a delicious and rich sauce.
Cook the pasta:
- While the sauce simmers, cook the tortellini according to package directions. Usually, this involves boiling in salted water until al dente. Drain the tortellini and set aside.
Combine and finish:
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Stir the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the simmering sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and toss gently to coat.
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Stir in the fresh basil (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Don't overcook the ground beef; it should be browned but not dry.
- If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little pasta water to the sauce before adding the tortellini.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – Asiago or Romano would be delicious additions.
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice touch of heat.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian sausage.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
- Creamy Spinach: Add a bag of frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) to the sauce along with the tortellini.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Consider using a nutritional calculator for precise values using your exact ingredients and serving size. However, expect a moderate calorie count, moderate protein, and a good source of carbohydrates from the pasta.
This easy tortellini recipe with ground beef is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner. Its delicious flavors and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for busy individuals and families. Enjoy your homemade, healthy and delicious meal!