Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (at least 80% lean)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup / 150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 (24 oz / 680g) jar marinara sauce
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 (20 oz / 567g) package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded Italian cheese blend (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in the large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess fat.
  5. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasonings as needed.
  6. Add the cooked tortellini to the meat sauce and stir gently to coat. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Italian cheese blend (if using) evenly over the top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
  9. (Optional) Broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a more deeply golden and bubbly cheese topping. Watch it carefully to prevent burning!
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil (if using). Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.