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### Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole

This Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole is a rich, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s bound to become a family favorite. Featuring tender tortellini pasta, a savory meat sauce, and a decadent blend of cream cheese and mozzarella, it’s comfort food at its finest. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner, this casserole brings big flavor with minimal effort.
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Equipment

  • Kitchen Equipment Needed:
  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • ### Ingredients Overview
  • - **Tortellini**: Fresh or frozen tortellini pasta works best for this recipe.
  • - **Ground Beef or Turkey**: Adds protein and flavor to the dish.
  • - **Marinara Sauce**: A high-quality marinara sauce provides a flavorful base.
  • - **Cream Cheese Mixture**: Creates a luscious creamy layer.
  • - **Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese**: Melted and bubbly these cheeses give the casserole its signature gooey topping.
  • ### Ingredients
  • - 1 pound tortellini fresh or frozen
  • - 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • - 2 cups marinara sauce
  • - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • - 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • - 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • - 1/2 cup sour cream
  • - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions
 

  • ### Step-by-Step Instructions
  • #### Prepare the Tortellini
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • #### Make the Meat Sauce
  • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  • Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
  • #### Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.
  • #### Assemble the Casserole
  • Spread half of the meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  • Layer half of the cooked tortellini on top of the sauce.
  • Spread the cream cheese mixture over the tortellini, followed by the remaining tortellini and meat sauce.
  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
  • #### Bake the Casserole
  • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  • #### Serve
  • Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • ### Recipe Tips
  • - **Substitute Protein**: Swap ground beef for ground chicken or a plant-based alternative for a different flavor profile.
  • - **Make Ahead**: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
  • - **Add Veggies**: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
  • ### What to Serve With This Recipe
  • Pair this casserole with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • ### Frequently Asked Questions
  • **Can I freeze this casserole?**
  • Yes! Assemble the casserole and freeze before baking. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes, covered, and then uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes.
  • **What tortellini flavors work best?**
  • Cheese or spinach-and-cheese tortellini are ideal, but you can use meat-filled tortellini for an extra hearty meal.
  • **How long do leftovers last?**
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • ### Serving Suggestions
  • This Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but for a special dinner, serve it with a side of Caesar salad, crusty bread, or roasted asparagus. It’s the kind of dish everyone will want seconds of!