Cheesy Beef Tortellini Skillet

Cheesy Beef Tortellini Skillet

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or sliced beef sirloin
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or use fresh tomatoes)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sliced beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. If you’re using ground beef, break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
   • Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Make the Sauce:
   • Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Cook the Tortellini:
   • While the sauce is simmering, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. If using fresh tortellini, it usually takes just a few minutes to cook.
   • Drain the tortellini and add it to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Gently stir to combine everything.
4. Add the Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the tortellini and beef mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor.
5. Serve:
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
   • Serve the cheesy beef tortellini hot, with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Tips:

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add some vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the skillet for added nutrition.
• Meat Variations: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: If you like a bit more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

This cheesy beef tortellini skillet is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or an easy weeknight meal. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and melted cheese is sure to be a hit!

If you have any other requests or need further assistance, feel free to ask!