Creamy Tortellini Bake with Alfredo, Marinara, and Ground Beef
Creamy Tortellini Bake with Alfredo, Marinara & Ground Beef
This indulgent tortellini casserole blends creamy Alfredo, zesty marinara, hearty ground beef, and melty cheese for a dinner that’s both easy and crowd-pleasing. It’s a comforting, oven-baked dish layered with bold Italian-American flavors—ideal for weeknight meals or cozy weekend dinners.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen) | 1 (20 oz) package |
| Ground beef (or Italian sausage) | 1 lb |
| Marinara sauce | 1 jar (24 oz) |
| Alfredo sauce | 1 jar (16 oz) |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups, divided |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup, divided |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh chopped basil
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray.
Cook the tortellini according to the package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the marinara sauce and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat.
3. Layer the Dish
Spread half of the cooked tortellini into the bottom of your baking dish. Spoon the meat and marinara mixture evenly over it.
Next, pour the Alfredo sauce over the meat layer, using a spoon to spread it evenly.
Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese.
4. Top It Off
Layer the remaining tortellini on top. Finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan for a cheesy crust.
5. Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling.
For a crispier, golden top, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes—just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
6. Garnish and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving to help it set.
Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired.
