Cheesy Italian Tortellini

Cheesy Italian Tortellini Recipe - Ground Beef, Sausage, Mushrooms, and More!

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cheesy Italian Tortellini is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines savory ground beef and sausage with tender tortellini and gooey melted cheese for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

History

The origins of this recipe can be traced back to traditional Italian cuisine, where pasta dishes are a staple. Tortellini, a type of filled pasta, is often served with a rich tomato sauce and cheese in Italian households. This Americanized version adds ground beef and sausage for a heartier twist on the classic dish.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) cooked and drained ground beef
1 lb (454 g) sausage
1 (16 oz (454 g)) jar spaghetti or marinara sauce
1 small can mushrooms
2 (9 oz (255 g)) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a large skillet, crumble the ground beef and sausage.
Cook over medium-high heat until browned.
Drain the excess fat.
Combine the cooked meats, marinara sauce, and mushrooms.
Sprinkle the cheeses on top.
Cover the skillet and cook at 350°F (177°C) for 25 minutes.

Variations

Try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, for a different flavor.
Add some chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage for a lighter version of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the excess fat from the cooked ground beef and sausage to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.

- Use a good quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.

- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat and add extra vegetables or tofu.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cheesy Italian Tortellini with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this recipe is to cook the ground beef and sausage until browned and then simmer them in the marinara sauce to allow the flavors to meld together. Covering the skillet while baking ensures that the cheese melts evenly and the tortellini cooks through.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have tortellini on hand, you can use any type of pasta for this recipe. You can also substitute the ground beef and sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Cheesy Italian Tortellini ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the skillet with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Cheesy Italian Tortellini with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a bit of heat.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a light and crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. A side of garlic bread or a Caesar salad complements the flavors of the tortellini nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Cheesy Italian Tortellini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the skillet with foil and bake at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cheesy Italian Tortellini contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cheesy Italian Tortellini contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cheesy Italian Tortellini contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Cheesy Italian Tortellini contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (tortellini).

Summary

Cheesy Italian Tortellini is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for dinner.

Summary

Cheesy Italian Tortellini is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With a rich tomato sauce, savory meats, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Cheesy Italian Tortellini. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria and I had known each other for years, and she was always eager to share her love of cooking with me.

On that particular day, Maria had just returned from a trip to Italy, where she had learned how to make this exquisite dish from a local chef. As soon as she mentioned the words "cheesy" and "tortellini," my mouth began to water. I had always been a fan of Italian cuisine, and the thought of combining two of my favorite ingredients in one dish was simply irresistible.

Maria wasted no time in pulling out her recipe book and showing me how to make the Cheesy Italian Tortellini. As she walked me through the steps, I could see the passion and care she put into every detail. From the homemade pasta dough to the creamy cheese filling, every aspect of the recipe was crafted with love and precision.

I watched in awe as Maria effortlessly rolled out the pasta dough, cut it into perfect squares, and filled each one with a generous dollop of ricotta and parmesan cheese. She then showed me how to fold the squares into delicate little parcels, sealing them with a pinch of her skilled fingers.

Once the tortellini were assembled, Maria gently dropped them into a pot of boiling water, where they floated to the surface like little pillows of perfection. As the aroma of cheese and herbs filled the kitchen, my stomach growled in anticipation of the delicious meal to come.

While the tortellini cooked, Maria prepared a simple yet flavorful sauce of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. She tossed the cooked tortellini in the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together in a harmonious dance of taste and texture.

Finally, it was time to plate the dish. Maria carefully arranged the Cheesy Italian Tortellini on a large serving platter, sprinkling them with a generous amount of grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. The sight of the golden pasta pillows glistening in the light was a true feast for the eyes.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Maria poured us each a glass of red wine and raised her glass in a toast to friendship, good food, and shared memories. I took my first bite of the Cheesy Italian Tortellini, and my taste buds exploded with joy. The creamy cheese filling melted in my mouth, while the tender pasta provided the perfect bite of texture.

With each bite, I felt a sense of gratitude for Maria and her generosity in sharing this recipe with me. It was a dish that spoke of tradition, love, and the simple pleasure of good food enjoyed with good company.

As I finished my last mouthful of tortellini, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire. I would make it for my family and friends, passing on the tradition of Cheesy Italian Tortellini to future generations.

And so, thanks to Maria and her Italian adventures, I had discovered a new favorite recipe that would forever hold a special place in my heart and on my dining table. The Cheesy Italian Tortellini had become more than just a dish—it was a memory, a connection to a dear friend, and a reminder of the joys of cooking and sharing good food with those we love.