Cheesy Pizza Tortellini One-Pan Dinner (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Components
01 -
450 grams lean ground beef
02 -
Salt and black pepper, to taste
03 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
04 -
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
05 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
700 milliliters marinara sauce
07 -
570 grams frozen cheese tortellini
08 -
115 grams cream cheese, cubed
09 -
80 grams mini pepperoni
10 -
200 grams shredded cheese blend (mozzarella and cheddar)
# Instructions:
01 -
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Season the meat generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Break up the beef as it cooks until it is thoroughly browned.
02 -
Add the mini pepperoni to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the edges of the pepperoni to become slightly crispy.
03 -
Carefully drain any accumulated excess fat from the skillet, leaving only the browned beef and pepperoni.
04 -
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for approximately 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant.
05 -
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and add the cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and smoothly incorporated into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
06 -
Introduce the frozen tortellini to the skillet and stir gently to ensure each piece is coated with the sauce. Cover the skillet and allow the tortellini to cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are plump, tender, and thoroughly heated.
07 -
Uncover the skillet and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the tortellini and sauce. If desired, scatter additional mini pepperoni on top of the cheese.
08 -
To melt the cheese, you have two options: either place the skillet under a broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, or cover the skillet and maintain low heat until the cheese is completely melted.
# Notes:
01 -
Consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter alternative.
02 -
To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and enhance the dish with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach alongside the garlic.
03 -
For optimal melting and texture, opt for freshly shredded cheese over pre-packaged varieties, which can sometimes be dry.
04 -
Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before incorporating it into the sauce for a smoother blend.
05 -
The crisping of the pepperoni is crucial for developing a rich depth of flavor; do not bypass this step.
06 -
Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a microwave.
07 -
This prepared meal freezes exceptionally well. Divide into freezer-safe containers and store for up to one month. Ensure thawing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.