Helen’s Baked Cheese Tortellinis with Beef Arrabbiata Sauce
Description
Helen’s Baked Cheese Tortellinis with Beef Arrabbiata Sauce is a true crowd-pleaser that boasts rich flavors and hearty satisfaction. This recipe, lovingly handed down from a friend’s mom, has been a favorite for gatherings and family dinners. The combination of creamy, cheesy tortellinis layered with a spicy beef arrabbiata sauce is not only delicious but incredibly filling. Perfect for a one-dish meal that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion, this dish is a testament to classic, home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
For the Beef Arrabbiata Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Baked Tortellinis:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (about 12 oz) cheese tortellinis (fresh or frozen)
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish or any lasagna-type pan
- Cooking utensils (spatula, ladle)
- Oven
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Arrabbiata Sauce:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Wipe the skillet clean, then add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, crushed red pepper flakes, and bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If the sauce appears too thin, you can uncover it during the last 20 minutes of cooking to allow it to thicken. Remove the bay leaf before using the sauce.
2. Prepare the Tortellinis:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the cheese tortellinis according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. Assemble the Baked Tortellinis:
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar lasagna-type pan, spread a thin layer of the beef arrabbiata sauce over the bottom.
- Layer the cooked tortellinis over the sauce, spreading them out evenly. Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the tortellinis.
- Add another layer of the beef arrabbiata sauce over the cheese and tortellinis. Continue layering with more tortellinis, cheese, and sauce until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle the heavy cream in a zigzag pattern over the top of the final layer of tortellinis. Be sure not to stir or mix the cream in; it will bake into the dish as it cooks.
4. Bake the Dish:
- Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Serve:
- Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. This hearty meal is typically enough to serve about 6 people, though it can easily stretch to feed more depending on portion sizes. Enjoy the rich and creamy goodness of Helen’s Baked Cheese Tortellinis with Beef Arrabbiata Sauce!
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 948.8
- Fat Content: 51.5 grams
- Saturated Fat Content: 26.8 grams
- Cholesterol Content: 221.4 milligrams
- Sodium Content: 976 milligrams
- Carbohydrate Content: 85.5 grams
- Fiber Content: 5.4 grams
- Sugar Content: 8.3 grams
- Protein Content: 38.2 grams
This recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner or for serving at a potluck. With its rich flavors and satisfying nature, Helen’s Baked Cheese Tortellinis with Beef Arrabbiata Sauce is a guaranteed hit for any occasion! 🍝🥘
