One rainy evening, I was in my kitchen. The smell of beef and onions made me think of my grandma’s house. Her Beef and Parmesan Tortellini was famous for good times and love.
This recipe is easy and full of flavor. It reminds me of those special moments. In about 30 minutes, you can make a dish that feels like home.
It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy night in. Let’s make this delicious tortellini together!
Introduction to Beef and Parmesan Tortellini
Beef and Parmesan Tortellini is very comforting. It’s perfect for family meals or special times. I love making it because it tastes so good.
The beef and creamy Parmesan sauce make it hard to resist. The smell of garlic and cream fills my kitchen. It’s a dish that makes you feel right at home.
This dish takes you to Italy with every bite. You can change it to fit your taste or diet. It’s always exciting to try new versions of this classic.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Tortellini Recipe
Beef and parmesan tortellini is a mix of comfort and ease. It turns a simple meal into a cozy experience. The smell of baked cheese and spices makes it perfect for any time.
A comfort food classic
Beef and parmesan tortellini is a true comfort food. It has lean ground beef and creamy parmesan for rich flavors. Each bite is hearty, making it a favorite for many.
The flavors blend well, creating a delicious taste. It feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Perfect for busy weeknights
This dish is great for busy weeknights. It’s quick to make, needing only 30 minutes to prepare. You can use fresh tortellini from places like Trader Joe’s or Costco to save time.
With simple steps, I can make a family-friendly dinner fast. This leaves more time for fun in the evening.
Ingredients for Beef and Parmesan Tortellini
Making Beef and Parmesan Tortellini is easy with the right ingredients. Each part adds flavor, making it a cozy dish. Here are the must-haves and some fun swaps for your taste.
Fresh and flavorful components
To make a tasty beef and cheese pasta, get these items:
- 1 pound of ground beef (preferably sirloin or tenderloin)
- 2 teaspoons of Montreal steak seasoning
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons of Italian seasoning
- 1¼ cups of water
- 1½ teaspoons of beef bouillon granules
- 1 (20-ounce) package of cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup of beef broth
This mix gives you a taste of Italy and is easy for families. Cooking the tortellini takes about 4-5 minutes. Your meal will be ready in under 30 minutes.
Options for substitutions
Want to try something new? Here are some ideas:
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner choice.
- Add veggies like zucchini or spinach for more nutrition.
- Try a lighter sauce with ¾ cup of milk and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch instead of heavy cream.
These changes let you make the dish your own while keeping it delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Tortellini
Making Beef and Parmesan Tortellini at home is fun. It’s easier when you break it down into steps. Start with prep work to keep things smooth.
Following these steps makes it easy and fun. You’ll enjoy making your own tortellini.
Prep work made easy
First, get your ingredients ready. You need 2 cups of flour, 3 small eggs, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil for the dough. Mix these together for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth.
Let the dough rest for 30 minutes. For the filling, mix 16 oz. of ricotta with 1/4 cup of Pecorino cheese. Add a pinch of nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a bit of lemon zest. Don’t forget a handful of parsley for extra flavor. This takes about 5 minutes.
Cooking tips for success
Roll out the dough to 1/16 inch thickness. Cut it into 2-inch squares. Use 1/2 teaspoon of filling for each square. Fold and seal them into tortellini shape, making sure the edges are tight.
Boil the tortellini in salted water for 3 to 4 minutes. They’re done when they float. Serve with tomato sauce or melted butter and Pecorino cheese. This recipe takes about 55 minutes from start to finish.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Eggs | 3 small |
| Salt (for dough) | 1 tsp. |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 Tbsp. |
| Whole Milk Ricotta | 16 oz. |
| Pecorino Cheese (shredded) | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon Zest (optional) | From 1/4 lemon |
| Salt (for stuffing) | 1 tsp. |
| Nutmeg | A pinch |
| Parsley (chopped) | A handful |
Beef and Parmesan Tortellini: Cooking Techniques
Learning the right cooking techniques is key for a great Italian pasta dish. First, cook the steak to the perfect doneness. This makes the dish taste better and feel right in your mouth. Use a sirloin steak, about 1 to 2 pounds, for the best flavor and juiciness.
Cooking the steak to medium takes about 3 to 4 minutes on a hot skillet. Next, cook the tortellini in chicken broth. This makes it taste good and ensures it’s just right. Use a 12-ounce package and cook it for about 10 minutes.
Then, sauté vegetables like peppers and onions in a skillet for 2 to 3 minutes. This makes them tender and sweet. It makes the dish even better.
It’s important to watch the liquid while cooking. You want it to reduce by half. After that, add garlic parmesan wing sauce for 2 to 3 minutes. This mixes all the flavors together. Using these techniques makes the dish a fun and tasty experience.
Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Pasta Dish
I love to find ways to make serving beef and cheese pasta special. It’s not just about the food. It’s about making everyone’s meal time fun.
Pairings that complement the flavors
Beef and Parmesan Tortellini gets even better with the right sides. Try these:
- A warm garlic bread for that comforting carb combination
- A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette
- Steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a splash of color and nutrition
- A rich tomato sauce, making the pasta’s flavors pop
Presentation ideas for special occasions
Food looks can really wow people, even more on special days. Here are my top tips:
- Use fancy plates or bowls to make the tortellini stand out.
- Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color.
- Drizzle olive oil or balsamic reduction just before serving to wow guests.
- Put each portion in small bowls for a cozy feel, great for parties.
Nutritional Information of Beef and Cheese Pasta
Looking at Beef and Parmesan Tortellini’s nutritional details is key. It has about 870 calories per serving. This comes from 200 calories of fat. The dish has 30 grams of fat, with 9 grams being saturated.
It has very little trans fat. The cholesterol is 45 milligrams, and sodium is 2210 milligrams. This is a lot of sodium.
The carbs are 113 grams, with 7 grams of fiber and 27 grams of sugars. It has 37 grams of protein. This makes it a filling meal.
Here’s a quick look at the nutrition facts:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 870 |
| Total Fat | 30g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 2210mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 113g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7g |
| Sugars | 27g |
| Protein | 37g |
| Vitamin A | 0% DV |
| Vitamin C | 0% DV |
| Calcium | 0% DV |
| Iron | 0% DV |
This dish is high in protein and calories. But, it’s not the healthiest choice every day. It has a lot of sodium and fat. Eating lighter dishes like salads or veggies can help.
How to Store Leftover Beef and Parmesan Tortellini
Storing pasta dishes like Beef and Parmesan Tortellini is easy. Just put leftovers in an airtight container. Cover it well to keep the flavors in.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the flavors longer.
Freezing is also good for longer storage. Beef and cheese pasta can stay frozen for 1 to 2 months. Put it in freezer-safe containers before sealing.
If frozen, thaw for 30 minutes. Then bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes.
To reheat, use an oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly. Or, microwave in 30-60 second bursts, stirring between each interval. This makes stored tortellini almost as tasty as the first day!
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Trying new things with Beef and Parmesan Tortellini can make dinner better. I like to mix in different ingredients and flavors. This makes the dish special and healthy.
Adding vegetables for added nutrition
Adding veggies makes your tortellini healthier. Try these:
- Spinach for its rich iron content.
- Bell peppers for a boost of vitamins A and C.
- Broccoli to add fiber and crunch.
- Zucchini for a refreshing twist.
These veggies make the dish healthier and more colorful. They also taste great and are full of nutrients.
Different sauces for unique tastes
Choosing the right sauce changes the dish’s taste. Here are some tasty options:
- A rich and creamy Alfredo to complement the beef.
- A tangy marinara that adds a zip to every bite.
- A basil pesto sauce for a fresh and aromatic experience.
- A light olive oil and garlic drizzle for simplicity.
Exploring these sauces brings new flavors to your Beef and Parmesan Tortellini. Each mix offers a unique taste, making dinner fun and tasty.
Exploring Authentic Italian Cuisine with Tortellini
Exploring authentic Italian cuisine is like a fun journey. Tortellini, with its rich history, is a great way to start. It comes from the Emilia Romagna region and brings Italy’s warmth and tradition to your table.
When I make Beef and Parmesan Tortellini, I think of old recipes. These recipes show the balance of flavors and the use of fresh ingredients. Each filling, like meat or 3 Cheese Rainbow, gives a new twist to this classic dish.
Cooking tortellini is quick and lets me enjoy its light texture. It’s more than a recipe; it’s a way to show Italian cooking’s art. Celebrating National Tortellini Day in February is a joy. It invites everyone to enjoy Italian food and make memories together.
