One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole

Name: One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 10 ounces canned diced tomatoes, drained; 2 ½ cups beef broth; ¼ cup heavy cream; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or cheese blend; 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley

Posted on October 22, 2025

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One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This comforting meal combines cheesy tortellini, savory ground beef, and fresh ingredients in a single skillet. It’s not only easy to prepare but also delivers rich flavors your family will love. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or a cozy gathering, this casserole is sure to impress with its delightful taste and minimal cleanup.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy Preparation: With just one pot, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of cheese tortellini, ground beef, and spices creates a mouthwatering experience.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty dish, making it ideal for family dinners.
Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or paired with a salad for a complete meal.
Minimal Cleanup: Since everything is cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-have kitchen tools for this recipe.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large oven-safe skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to cook all ingredients in one place without transferring them to another dish.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and safe.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor every time.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your skillet.

Ingredients

This dish contains the three essential ingredients to a table full of happy family: pasta, ground beef, and cheese!

For the Casserole

20 ounces cheese tortellini (refrigerated)
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
10 ounces can diced tomatoes (drained)
2 ½ cup beef broth
¼ cup heavy cream
1 ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or cheese blend
2 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley

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How to Make One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a large oven-safe skillet over medium/high heat. If there’s excess grease, drain it from the pan.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Return the pan with the ground beef back to the stove. Add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook while stirring for about 3-4 minutes until the onion starts to soften.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Stir in salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning into the beef mixture until evenly combined.

Step 4: Add Tortellini and Broth

Add refrigerated tortellini, drained tomatoes, and beef broth to the skillet. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer Until Ready

Cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce heat to simmer for about 5 minutes. After that, remove the cover and let it simmer for a few more minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in heavy cream along with half of the shredded cheese. Top with remaining cheese.

Step 7: Broil Until Bubbly

Place your skillet under the broiler for just a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starts to brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish your casserole with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot!

How to Serve One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole

Serving One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole is easy and fun. This dish brings warmth and comfort to the table, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious casserole.

With Garlic Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve slices of toasted garlic bread on the side for a crunchy contrast that pairs beautifully with the creamy casserole.

Fresh Salad

Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the dish.

Vegetable Medley

Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or green beans can enhance the meal with added nutrients and color.

With Extra Cheese

Cheesy Topping: For cheese lovers, sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top just before serving for an indulgent finish.

Soft Dinner Rolls

Dinner Rolls: Warm, soft dinner rolls can be served to soak up any leftover sauce, adding a comforting touch to your meal.

Wine Pairing (Non-Alcoholic)

Sparkling Grape Juice: For a festive touch, serve with sparkling grape juice which complements the flavors without any alcohol.

How to Perfect One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole

To make your One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole even better, consider these helpful tips.

Bold Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences. Add more Italian herbs for an extra flavor kick.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh onions and garlic for a more robust flavor profile compared to dried versions.
Creamy Texture: For a creamier texture, increase the amount of heavy cream added at the end.
Layering Cheese: Layer cheeses throughout the cooking process for maximum cheesiness in every bite.
Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Add Veggies: Consider adding spinach or bell peppers during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole

Pairing sides with One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent side dish options that complement this hearty main course.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a delightful pairing with the casserole.
Caprese Salad: A simple salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar brings freshness to the table.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a savory crunch that contrasts well with the casserole’s creaminess.
Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad topped with nuts and a light vinaigrette enhances both taste and nutrition.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob can be grilled or boiled, adding a sweet element that complements the savory flavors.
Grilled Zucchini: Sliced zucchini grilled until tender offers a healthy side that’s easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole, avoiding these common mistakes will ensure a delicious meal.

Overcooking the Tortellini: If you cook the tortellini for too long, it can become mushy. Follow package instructions and check for doneness during the simmering stage.
Not Browning the Beef Properly: Failing to brown the ground beef can result in a bland flavor. Take time to cook it until it’s well browned before adding other ingredients.
Ignoring Seasoning: Missing out on seasoning can lead to a dull dish. Don’t skip salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning; they enhance the overall taste of the casserole.
Skipping the Broiling Step: Broiling is key for achieving a bubbly, golden cheese topping. Don’t skip this step; keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Using Low-Quality Cheese: Poor quality cheese can affect texture and flavor. Use fresh, high-quality shredded cheese for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole

Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
It will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl. Start with 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole?

One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole is a hearty dish that combines pasta, ground beef, cheese, and seasonings all cooked in one pan for easy preparation.

Can I use different types of meat in this casserole?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground chicken, turkey, or lamb if you prefer those options over beef.

How do I customize my One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses or spices to suit your taste!

How long does it take to prepare this casserole?

The total time for preparing the One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole is approximately 25 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner.

Conclusion

This One Pot Tortellini and Ground Beef Skillet Casserole is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavors that your family will love. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with various meats or veggies based on your preferences. Give it a try tonight!