Description
This Cheesy Tortellini Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish. Tender cheese tortellini baked with rich marinara sauce, seasoned ground chicken, and a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
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20 oz cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen, thawed if frozen)
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2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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1 lb ground chicken or beef (cooked and drained)
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2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a skillet, cook ground chicken or beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through (6-8 minutes). Add garlic and Italian seasoning, cook for another 1-2 minutes.
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In a large bowl, combine cooked meat, marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, tortellini, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Stir well.
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Spread the tortellini mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
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Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes.
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Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
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To make it creamier, add 1/2 cup of ricotta or cream cheese to the sauce mixture.
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Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American