Description
This Easy Cheesy Crockpot Tortellini with Ground Beef is a comforting, hands-off meal perfect for busy days. Ground beef and onions are browned and combined with marinara and diced tomatoes, then slow-cooked to meld the flavors. Cheese-filled tortellini and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses are added near the end, creating a creamy, cheesy casserole that’s hearty and satisfying. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is simple to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 24 ounce jar marinara sauce
- 14 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 18 ounces cheese filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Line your slow cooker with a slow cooker liner or spray it thoroughly with nonstick baking spray to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
- Brown the Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess grease carefully to reduce fat content.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked ground beef and onion mixture into the slow cooker. Add the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and any desired seasonings. Stir everything together to combine the flavors evenly. Set the slow cooker on low heat for 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Add Tortellini and Cheese: About 20 minutes before serving, add the frozen cheese-filled tortellini along with half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Stir gently to incorporate them throughout the dish.
- Top with Remaining Cheese and Finish Cooking: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover and cook for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the tortellini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the slow cooker liner or carefully scoop servings onto plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
Notes
- Variations: Substitute some or all of the ground beef with ground sausage or turkey for different flavor profiles.
- Add flavor boosts like pesto, garlic paste, or Italian seasoning directly to the spaghetti sauce for extra depth.
- You can use fresh, frozen, or dry tortellini. If using dry, add it earlier with the ground beef and sauce to ensure proper cooking.
- Top with chopped basil as an alternative or addition to parsley garnish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
