Baked Tortellini Casserole

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the Tortellini:
  • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  1. Brown the Meat:
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
  • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  1. Combine the Ingredients:
  • Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
  1. Assemble the Casserole:
  • In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom.
  • Layer the tortellini mixture on top, then pour the remaining meat sauce over it.
  • Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  1. Bake:
  • Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  1. Garnish and Serve:
  • Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy!

This casserole is comforting, cheesy, and perfect for a family dinner. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms if you like. Let me know if you need any adjustments or variations!