Hello friends, Chef André here.
If you’re hunting for a cheap, easy, and guaranteed-to-please family dinner, let me introduce you to this Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole. The name says it all—this dish tastes rich, indulgent, and downright luxurious, even though it’s made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients.
Cheese-stuffed tortellini tossed in a creamy, savory meat sauce, layered with mozzarella and Parmesan, then baked until bubbly and golden… yeah, this is the kind of dinner picky eaters and hungry adults both clean their plates for.
It’s cozy, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why This Tortellini Casserole Is a Total Winner
This recipe checks all the right boxes:
- Affordable and made with pantry staples
- Ultra cheesy and creamy
- Kid-approved and picky-eater friendly
- Great for feeding a crowd
- Perfect for leftovers and meal prep
This is comfort food that delivers every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Pasta Layer
- 20 oz cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
Creamy Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley or basil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2
Cook tortellini according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 3
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until browned. Drain excess fat.
Step 4
Stir marinara sauce and cream cheese into the beef until smooth and creamy.
Step 5
Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the sauce.
Step 6
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 7
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Step 8
Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Chef André’s Tips for Million Dollar Flavor
- Don’t overcook tortellini before baking
- Soften cream cheese first for smooth sauce
- Use whole-milk mozzarella for best melt
- Let casserole rest before slicing
Simple steps, rich results.
Easy Variations to Try
- Add spinach or mushrooms to the sauce
- Swap beef for ground turkey
- Add red pepper flakes for heat
- Use a blend of cheeses for extra richness
This casserole loves flexibility.
What to Serve with Baked Tortellini Casserole
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Simple green salad
- Garlic bread
- Steamed vegetables
It’s hearty enough to shine on its own.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days
- Freeze baked or unbaked for up to 2 months
- Reheat covered in the oven for best texture
For safe handling of cooked meat and dairy, follow USDA Food Safety guidelines:
https://www.usda.gov/food-safety
FAQ – Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and bake when ready.
Is this good for picky eaters?
Absolutely—cheesy, creamy, and mild.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, it freezes beautifully.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, just cook before assembling.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: ~560 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
Values vary by brand and cheese amounts.
Final Words from Chef André
This Million Dollar Baked Tortellini Casserole is everything a family dinner should be—easy, comforting, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make a meal that feels special.
If you try it, tell me—extra cheese on top or mixed inside?
Chef André 👨🍳