Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet.
When the weekday hustle leaves you with little time and energy to cook, a comforting and delicious meal can feel like a dream. Enter the Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet. This dish brings together savory ground beef or turkey, tender cheese tortellini, and a luscious marinara sauce, all topped with gooey mozzarella and fresh basil. It’s a one-pan wonder that will have your family asking for seconds, while you enjoy the ease of cleanup. Plus, it’s ready in just about 30 minutes!
What Makes This Recipe Special
The Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet. stands out for several reasons. First, it combines the heartiness of protein, the elegance of cheese tortellini, and the vibrant flavors of a rich marinara sauce. The melted mozzarella on top creates an irresistible cheesy layer that pulls apart beautifully when served. Not to forget, it’s adaptable! You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile choice for any weeknight dinner.
What to Buy
To whip up this delicious Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet., here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- Kosher salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 ounces of your favorite marinara sauce
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini, cooked
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn apart
- Parmesan cheese, for topping
- Fresh basil, for topping
Appliances & Accessories
Before you get cooking, gather these essential kitchen tools:
- Large skillet: A deep skillet will help contain all the ingredients while they cook.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the meat as it browns.
- Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring out your herbs and seasonings.
- Garlic press (optional): For quickly mincing your garlic cloves.
- Serving spoon: To dish out the tasty meal once it’s ready.
Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet., Made Easy
Getting started on your Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet. is a breeze. Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Season with kosher salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Once the meat is cooked, add the minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano. Stir for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Incorporate the Marinara
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet, stirring well to combine with the meat and seasonings. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Mix in the Tortellini
Add the cooked cheese tortellini to the skillet, gently stirring until they are well coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Add the Mozzarella
Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and sprinkle it over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the mozzarella is perfectly melted, remove the skillet from heat. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and torn fresh basil for a burst of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness of your Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet.
Quick Replacement Ideas
Don’t have all the ingredients? Here are some quick swaps you can make:
- Ground turkey can be replaced with ground chicken or a plant-based meat alternative.
- If you don’t have cheese tortellini, any pasta shape will work—just be sure to adjust the cooking time.
- Use homemade marinara or any store-bought sauce that you love.
- Fresh mozzarella can be swapped for shredded mozzarella or a different cheese like provolone.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
Even seasoned cooks can stumble when preparing the Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the meat: Ensure it’s browned but not dry. Keep the heat at medium and stir regularly.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season the meat properly; it enhances the overall flavor.
- Not enough sauce: Make sure to use enough marinara so that the tortellini is well-coated and moist.
- Using cold cheese: Let your mozzarella come to room temperature for better melting.
Best Ways to Store
Storing leftovers from your Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet. is easy! Here’s how:
Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Ask & Learn
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just substitute the ground beef or turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini can be used! Just follow the package instructions to cook them before adding them to your skillet.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil or skip it altogether. However, fresh herbs do add a lovely finishing touch!
How can I spice it up?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat or toss in chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies.
Bring It to the Table
Your family will be thrilled when they see the Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet. steaming on the table. It’s a dish that invites everyone to gather around and share in the joy of good food. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread, and you have a complete meal that feels special, even on the busiest of weeknights.
With its simplicity, flavor, and comforting qualities, the Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet. is sure to become a beloved staple in your household. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly request! Happy cooking!
Cheesy Weeknight Tortellini Skillet.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Season with kosher salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the meat is cooked, add the minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano. Stir for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet, stirring well to combine with the meat and seasonings. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Add the cooked cheese tortellini to the skillet, gently stirring until they are well coated in the sauce.
- Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and sprinkle it over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once the mozzarella is perfectly melted, remove the skillet from heat. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and torn fresh basil for a burst of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Allow the skillet to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months; reheat after thawing in the fridge.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey with plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.
- Any pasta shape can be used instead of tortellini; adjust cooking time accordingly.
