If you’re craving a comforting yet elegant meal that comes together quickly, this Cheese Tortellini with Meat Sauce is an absolute winner. Tender cheese-filled pasta embraces a rich, savory meat sauce kissed with creamy marinara, bringing a delightful harmony of flavors in every bite. It’s the perfect dish to make weeknight dinners feel special without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation!

Cheese Tortellini with Meat Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple ingredients is key to creating a delicious Cheese Tortellini with Meat Sauce. Each component plays its role perfectly—from the fragrant garlic and onions to the creamy touch in the sauce that elevates the overall richness.

1 tablespoon Olive Oil: For sautéing the onions to bring out their natural sweetness and create a flavorful base.
1/3 cup (1/2 a diced) Onion: Adds a mild sharpness and depth to the sauce.
1 teaspoon minced Garlic: Packs aromatic punch and savory warmth.
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A classic blend that gives the sauce an herbaceous, authentic Italian flair.
1 pound Ground Beef: The hearty protein that makes this dish comforting and filling.
24 ounce jar Marinara Sauce: Provides the tangy tomato foundation for our luscious meat sauce.
1/3 cup Half-n-Half or Heavy Cream: Adds a velvety texture and softens the acidity of the marinara.
16 ounce bag Frozen Cheese Tortellini: The star pasta filled with gooey cheese, bringing richness and bite.
1/2 cup Mozzarella: Melts beautifully on top, making for a golden, cheesy finish.
Optional Shaved Parmesan: Sprinkle for an extra sharp, nutty garnish.
Optional Fresh Parsley: Gives a fresh pop of color and brightness to the dish.

How to Make Cheese Tortellini with Meat Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional two minutes. This process unlocks the fragrant base flavor that the sauce will build upon.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with your spatula. Season it lightly with salt and pepper as it cooks. Once the beef is nicely browned and no longer pink, drain off any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Combine Sauce and Seasonings

Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the beef, stirring to blend the herbs evenly. Pour in the entire jar of marinara sauce, stirring to combine it fully with the meat. This slow melding of tomato and seasoned beef flavors creates the heart of your sauce.

Step 4: Add the Cream

Pour 1/3 cup of half-n-half or heavy cream straight into the empty sauce jar. Replace the lid and give it a good shake to catch every last bit. Then stir this creamy mixture into the skillet. This final step softens the acidity and adds luxurious silkiness to your meat sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Cook and Add the Tortellini

While your sauce simmers gently, cook the frozen cheese tortellini according to the package directions. Once tender and irresistible, transfer the tortellini directly into the skillet using a slotted spoon—this keeps things from getting soggy. Gently fold it into the sauce, letting the pasta soak up all that meaty, creamy goodness.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Garnish

Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Allow it to melt softly from the residual heat, creating a luscious, golden layer. For an extra touch, garnish with shaved Parmesan and fresh parsley to brighten up the plate.

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Meat Sauce

Garnishes

Adding freshly shaved Parmesan and a handful of chopped parsley not only enhances the flavor but also brings a lovely visual contrast. The sharpness of Parmesan complements the creamy sauce while parsley adds a refreshing, herbaceous note to each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty main with a crisp side salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread works wonders for mopping up any leftover sauce—trust me, you won’t want to leave a drop behind!

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family dinner, serve everything in one big, rustic skillet right on the table, letting everyone help themselves. If you’re entertaining guests, plate individual portions topped with extra cheese and a sprig of fresh herbs to elevate the look. Either way, this dish’s vibrant colors and comforting aroma make it instantly inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cheese Tortellini with Meat Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days and remains delicious when reheated gently.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, separating layers with parchment paper if needed, and freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water, broth, or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Alternatively, warm in the microwave covered, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great and makes a lighter version of this dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as leaner meats cook faster and may require less draining of fat.

Do I have to use frozen tortellini?

While frozen cheese tortellini is convenient and readily available, fresh tortellini can be used for an even more tender and flavorful dish. Just reduce cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Can I make the meat sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the meat sauce can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated. This actually helps the flavors deepen! Simply reheat and add freshly cooked tortellini before serving.

Is there a dairy-free option for the cream?

You can substitute the half-n-half or heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative. These will still lend a smooth consistency but with a slightly different flavor profile.

How do I prevent the tortellini from sticking together?

Be sure to stir the tortellini occasionally while cooking and drain them well before adding to the sauce. Folding them in gently ensures they stay separated and nicely coated.

Final Thoughts

This Cheese Tortellini with Meat Sauce is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for weeknights but flavorful and comforting enough to serve at special dinners with friends and family. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta dinner that everyone asks for again and again!

Cheese Tortellini with Meat Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 5 reviews

Author: Harper
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

A comforting and flavorful Cheese Tortellini with Meat Sauce recipe featuring ground beef simmered in a rich marinara cream sauce, combined with tender cheese tortellini and topped with melted mozzarella and optional Parmesan and fresh parsley for garnish. Perfect for a hearty family dinner served alongside a fresh salad and garlic bread.

Instructions

Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the diced onions until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is evenly browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat from the pan.
Add Seasoning and Marinara Sauce: Stir in the Italian seasoning and pour the entire jar of marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Incorporate Cream: Pour 1/3 cup half-n-half or heavy cream into the empty marinara sauce jar, replace the lid, and shake well to combine. Pour this creamy mixture back into the skillet with the meat sauce, stirring to create a rich, smooth sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Tortellini: Prepare the frozen cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, usually boiling for 3-5 minutes until tender. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked tortellini directly into the skillet with the meat sauce.
Combine and Heat Through: Gently stir the tortellini into the meat sauce until well coated and heated through for an additional 1-2 minutes over medium heat.
Top with Cheese and Garnish: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the tortellini and sauce mixture. Optionally, garnish with shaved Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley to add extra flavor and visual appeal.
Serve: Serve the Cheese Tortellini with Meat Sauce hot, alongside a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal. Enjoy!

Notes

You can substitute half-n-half with heavy cream for a richer sauce or use milk for a lighter version.
Drain excess fat from the cooked beef to avoid greasy sauce.
The recipe serves 4 to 6 people depending on portion size.
Add fresh basil or oregano if Italian seasoning is unavailable to enhance flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use a vegetarian marinara sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American