Ingredients Overview
Ground Beef (1 pound): The base of this dish, providing a hearty, savory flavor. Choose lean ground beef to keep the dish balanced.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and prevents sticking while sautéing.
Onion (1, diced): Enhances the dish with a natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings aromatic and robust flavor to the sauce.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Italian flavors.
Marinara Sauce (1 jar): Acts as the flavorful, tomato-based sauce that ties everything together. Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce.
Cheese Tortellini (1 package): Pillowy, cheese-filled pasta that adds indulgence to the dish. Use fresh or refrigerated tortellini for best results.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups): The crowning glory that melts into a gooey, golden layer.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Balances and enhances all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking and a bubbly, golden top.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in 1 jar of marinara sauce and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Cook the Tortellini
Prepare the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and add the cooked tortellini directly to the beef and marinara mixture. Gently stir to combine.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and tortellini mixture to a greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly, ensuring the tortellini is coated with the sauce.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, covering the entire surface.
Step 8: Bake
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
Step 9: Serve
Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!
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