Pin it
A comforting baked pasta dish combining cheese tortellini, seasoned ground beef, and a rich sauce topped with melted mozzarella.
Essential Ingredients:
- Cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen
- Lean ground beef: Creates hearty base
- Boursin cheese: Secret flavor boost
- Marinara sauce: Use quality jar
- Fresh mozzarella: Creates perfect melt
- Seasoned salt: Enhances beef
Pin it
Detailed Instructions:
- Prepare Components
- Cook tortellini al dente
- Brown ground beef thoroughly
- Season meat well
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Create Sauce
- Add marinara to beef
- Stir in Boursin until melted
- Combine with tortellini
- Mix gently
- Assemble Casserole
- Layer in baking dish
- Top with mozzarella
- Spread evenly
- Cover edges
- Bake Until Bubbly
- Cook 15-20 minutes
- Watch cheese browning
- Let rest briefly
- Serve hot
Storage Tips:
Keeps 4-5 days refrigerated. Reheat covered at 350°F.
Perfect Pairings:
Serve with garlic bread and green salad.
Chef's Tips:
- Use freshly grated cheese
- Season in layers
- Don't overmix pasta
- Cover if browning too fast
Pin it
Years of casserole making taught me that proper pasta cooking and careful assembly creates the perfect family dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why fresh grated cheese?
- Melts smoother than pre-shredded, which has anti-caking agents.
- → Boursin substitute?
- Cream cheese with Italian herbs works too.
- → Make ahead?
- Assemble early, add 5-10 minutes bake time if chilled.
- → Freezer friendly?
- Yes, freeze before baking. Thaw overnight.
- → Ground beef options?
- Turkey or Italian sausage work well too.