Easy Ground Beef and Parmesan Tortellini Recipe

Introduction

This easy ground beef and Parmesan tortellini recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, it combines savory ground beef with cheesy tortellini in a rich tomato sauce for a comforting meal the whole family will love. If you enjoy tortellini, you might also like this Spicy Tortellini Soup for another quick dinner option.

Ingredients

This Beef & Parmesan Tortellini Recipe combines savory ground beef, rich tomato paste, and creamy sauce with tender cheese-filled pasta for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that comes together in one pan.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon double-concentrated tomato paste
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth
• 1 pound cheese tortellini
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Beef & Parmesan Tortellini Recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Beef Filling

Cook 1/2 pound of ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks for even texture.

Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1 beaten egg. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano for a savory flavor base.

Step 2 — Fill the Tortellini Wrappers

Lay fresh pasta squares or wonton wrappers on a clean, lightly floured surface. Place about 1 teaspoon of the beef and Parmesan filling in the center of each wrapper.

Brush the edges of the wrapper with water, then fold it diagonally to form a triangle, pressing firmly to seal. Bring the two bottom corners together and pinch to form the classic tortellini shape.

Step 3 — Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully drop the filled tortellini into the water and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until they float to the surface and the pasta is tender.

Avoid overcooking—fresh pasta cooks quickly. Use a slotted spoon to remove the tortellini and transfer them to a bowl. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce if desired.

Step 4 — Make a Simple Sauce

In the same skillet used for the beef, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth, stirring constantly. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5 — Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Add the cooked Beef & Parmesan Tortellini to the skillet with the cream sauce. Gently toss to coat each piece evenly, being careful not to break the delicate pasta.

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Simmer together for 1–2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 6 — Finish with Cheese and Herbs

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The residual heat will melt the cheese into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy texture.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. For a brighter flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.

Step 7 — Serve Immediately

Divide the Beef & Parmesan Tortellini among warm plates. This dish is best enjoyed right away while the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy.

Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	24g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	18g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	680mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey or Chicken — Lighter protein option with similar savory flavor profile.
• Whole Wheat Tortellini — Higher fiber alternative while maintaining the classic pasta texture.
• Zucchini Noodles or Spaghetti Squash — Low-carb vegetable base that pairs well with the rich sauce.
• Nutritional Yeast — Dairy-free substitute for parmesan that provides a cheesy, umami flavor.
• Gluten-Free Tortellini — Perfect swap for those with dietary restrictions, available in most grocery stores.
• Low-Sodium Broth — Reduces salt content without sacrificing the deep, savory foundation of the dish.
• Lean Ground Beef (90/10) — Lower fat version that maintains the traditional beef flavor.
• Cashew Cream Sauce — Creamy dairy-free alternative that complements the tortellini filling beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the Beef & Parmesan Tortellini Recipe.
• Serve alongside warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping into the savory sauce.
• Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual weekend gatherings with friends.
• Elevate the dish for special occasions by garnishing with fresh basil and extra shaved Parmesan.
• Create a complete meal by adding roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes and zucchini directly to the plate.
• For elegant plating, use shallow bowls and twirl the tortellini with tongs to showcase the filling.

This Beef & Parmesan Tortellini Recipe is versatile enough for both quick family meals and impressive dinner parties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the tortellini, making it mushy. Fix: Cook al dente and finish in the sauce to absorb flavor while maintaining texture.
• Mistake: Using pre-grated Parmesan, which can clump and lacks freshness. Fix: Freshly grate a high-quality Parmigiano-Reggiano block for superior melting and flavor.
• Mistake: Not browning the beef properly, leading to a bland, gray color. Fix: Sear beef in batches over high heat to develop a rich, caramelized crust.
• Mistake: Skipping the pasta water, resulting in a thin, watery sauce. Fix: Reserve starchy pasta water to emulsify and thicken your sauce beautifully.
• Mistake: Adding cheese directly to high heat, causing it to seize. Fix: Remove the pan from heat before stirring in Parmesan to prevent clumping.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the beef mixture, making the filling taste flat. Fix: Season the beef generously with salt, pepper, and herbs during cooking.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan when sautéing, which steams instead of sears. Fix: Use a large skillet and cook ingredients in batches for proper browning.
• Mistake: Using a watery tomato sauce that dilutes the dish. Fix: Simmer your sauce to reduce and concentrate flavors before combining with tortellini.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature within two hours of cooking for food safety.
• Freezer: Freeze this Beef & Parmesan Tortellini Recipe in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Beef & Parmesan Tortellini is reheated to a safe temperature before serving.

Conclusion

This Beef & Parmesan Tortellini Recipe is a perfect weeknight meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. If you enjoyed this dish, you might also love our Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Soup. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

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FAQs

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of dried for this Beef & Parmesan Tortellini Recipe?

Yes, fresh tortellini works perfectly. Simply adjust the cooking time according to the package directions, as fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried. This ensures your Beef & Parmesan Tortellini Recipe turns out perfectly al dente.

What can I substitute for the ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative are excellent substitutes. The recipe remains delicious and maintains the hearty quality essential for a great Beef & Parmesan Tortellini Recipe.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent the sauce from drying out, keeping your Beef & Parmesan Tortellini Recipe tasting fresh.