Discover the rich flavors of Italy with these 20 mouthwatering tortellini recipes featuring ground beef as the star ingredient. From classic comfort dishes to innovative twists, we’ve got you covered with a variety of delicious and easy-to-make meals that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll explore the versatility of tortellini and ground beef, showcasing a range of recipes that combine these two beloved ingredients in creative and satisfying ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into our collection of savory tortellini recipes with ground beef delights!
Cheesy Tortellini Bolognese with Ground Beef
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the comforting flavors of ground beef, tomato sauce, and cheese-filled tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
6. Combine the cooked tortellini and tomato sauce in the skillet.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until melted and creamy.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Tomato Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet
This hearty one-pot meal combines the flavors of tender ground beef, creamy tomatoes, and cheese-filled tortellini for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8-10 cheese-filled tortellini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the tortellini and heavy cream. Simmer until the pasta is cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Ground Beef and Tortellini Soup
This hearty soup combines the comfort of ground beef and cheese tortellini with a kick of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe is quick to prepare and can be customized to your desired level of spiciness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 oz cheese tortellini
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes.
4. Add Parmesan cheese and tortellini; simmer an additional 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and pasta is cooked.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Tortellini with Ground Beef and Spinach
A classic comfort food dish gets a flavorful boost with the addition of garlic butter, ground beef, and wilted spinach. This hearty pasta recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tortellini
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add garlic and butter to the skillet; sauté until fragrant.
4. Stir in spinach leaves; wilt until tender.
5. Combine cooked tortellini, ground beef mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Tortellini and Ground Beef Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of ground beef, tomato sauce, and cheese-filled tortellini in one convenient pan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Arrange tortellini on top of the sauce.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pasta.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini Lasagna with Ground Beef and Ricotta
Elevate your lasagna game with this creative take on the classic, featuring tender tortellini filled with ground beef and ricotta. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella
– 12-16 tortellini (cheese-filled)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add garlic, marinara sauce, and cooked tortellini to the skillet; stir well.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat mixture followed by a layer of ricotta cheese.
6. Repeat steps 5-6, ending with a layer of mozzarella on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Tortellini Stuffed Peppers
A twist on the classic stuffed pepper recipe, this dish combines ground beef, tortellini, and cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 8 oz tortellini
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
6. Stuff each pepper with the cooked tortellini, ground beef mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tortellini Alfredo with Ground Beef and Mushrooms
This hearty pasta dish combines tender ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, and cheese-filled tortellini in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini (12 oz)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and mushrooms to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese; bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the sauce; toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican-Inspired Tortellini with Spiced Ground Beef
Add a flavorful twist to traditional tortellini with this spicy and savory Mexican-inspired recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces tortellini
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
5. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, spiced ground beef mixture, marinara sauce, and reserved pasta water.
6. Top with shredded cheese and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tortellini and Ground Beef Meatball Bake
This comforting casserole combines tender tortellini, savory ground beef meatballs, and a rich tomato sauce for a satisfying weeknight dinner. With minimal prep work and easy assembly, this recipe is perfect for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
7. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half the tortellini, followed by half the meatballs, and half the tomato sauce. Repeat layers.
8. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: approximately 35-40 minutes
Pesto Tortellini with Ground Beef and Cherry Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on classic spaghetti, this recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the brightness of cherry tomatoes and the creamy kick of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
5. Stir in pesto and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked tortellini and ground beef mixture. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Tortellini Minestrone Soup
This comforting soup combines tender ground beef, plump tortellini, and a medley of vegetables in a rich beef broth. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 cup frozen spinach and cheese tortellini
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, broth, pasta, tortellini, carrot, celery, and kidney beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tortellini Carbonara with Ground Beef and Peas
This recipe puts a new spin on the traditional Italian dish by adding ground beef and peas to create a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tortellini
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the frozen peas and cook until they’re tender.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked tortellini to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
7. Add the ground beef and pea mixture to the tortellini and stir until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Tortellini with Ground Beef and Marinara
Transform a weeknight dinner into a satisfying meal with this easy slow cooker recipe. Tender tortellini, flavorful ground beef, and rich marinara sauce come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef and onion in a skillet, then add garlic, crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and stir in tortellini.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Tortellini Taco Bake with Ground Beef and Cheese
This recipe combines the comfort of tortellini with the bold flavors of tacos, all wrapped up in a cheesy casserole. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 12 oz tortellini
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and taco seasoning; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in tortellini, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Tortellini Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
This recipe combines the comfort of ground beef with the creaminess of tortellini, all wrapped up in a savory soy sauce-based stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox surprise!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 package frozen cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to combine with the beef mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tortellini with Ground Beef and Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This hearty pasta dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef, roasted red peppers, and creamy sauce, all wrapped up in tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted red pepper sauce (see note)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 12-16 cheese-filled tortellini
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the roasted red pepper sauce, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
5. Combine the cooked tortellini with the ground beef mixture; toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Note: Roasted red pepper sauce can be store-bought or homemade (see recipe). If using a pre-made sauce, adjust the amount according to your taste.
Ground Beef and Tortellini Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe uses zucchinis as the “boats” for a savory filling of ground beef, cheese, and tortellini. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked tortellini
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the cooked tortellini mixture, topping with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tortellini with Ground Beef and Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Tortellini with Ground Beef and Creamy Parmesan Sauce
This classic Italian dish combines tender tortellini pasta with a rich and creamy ground beef sauce, topped with melted parmesan cheese. A comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-16 tortellini (cheese-filled)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and dried basil.
7. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Tortellini with Ground Beef and Caramelized Onions
Elevate your pasta game with this unique fusion of Italian and American flavors. Savor the sweet and smoky flavors of caramelized onions, tangy BBQ sauce, and tender ground beef wrapped in cheesy tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini (about 20-24 count)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add sliced onions and minced garlic; cook until onions are caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Stir in BBQ sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large serving dish, combine cooked ground beef mixture and tortellini.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top; bake for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of savory tortellini recipes featuring ground beef! This article presents 20 mouth-watering dishes that combine the classic pasta with the richness of ground beef. From hearty casseroles and lasagnas to soups, stews, and stir-fries, these recipes offer endless possibilities for a delicious meal. Whether you’re in the mood for cheesy bolognese, spicy soup, or creamy carbonara, there’s something for everyone. So go ahead and get creative with your ground beef and tortellini – your taste buds will thank you!