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Tortellini Bolognese

Tortellini Bolognese: Creamy, Hearty Dish for Family Nights

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Quick Tortellini Bolognese is a hearty Italian-inspired dish featuring crispy pepperoni and creamy cheese, perfect for family nights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 5 oz Pepperoni Adds a rich, spicy flavor; substitute with pancetta or prosciutto for a different taste.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Provides aromatic sweetness and depth; use shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Main protein source for heartiness; can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • 1 link Spicy Italian Sausage Enhances flavor with pre-seasoned spices, eliminating the need for multiple herbs.
  • 1 cup Chopped Celery Adds crunch and freshness; omit for a simpler sauce.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Introduces aromatic notes; fresh garlic is recommended.
  • 1 tbsp Dried Oregano Offers an earthy herbal flavor; basil can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Creates a rich tomato base; consider using crushed tomatoes for a chunkier sauce.
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Adds flavor and moisture; Rao’s or Carbone are recommended.
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese Provides a creamy texture; substitute with mascarpone for a different creaminess.
  • 1 tbsp Basil Pesto Gives a fresh, vibrant flavor; can be replaced with homemade pesto.
For the Pasta
  • 20 oz Cheese Tortellini Serves as the main pasta element; any pasta shape can be used.
For Serving
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Finishing touch for added flavor; use Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Separate pot for pasta

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Quick Tortellini Bolognese
  1. Cook the chopped pepperoni in a large pot over medium heat for about 5 minutes until crispy.
  2. In the same pot, add onion, ground beef, Italian sausage, celery, garlic, and oregano. Cook for about 10 minutes until browned.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, marinara sauce, and 1/2 cup of water. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
  4. Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese and pesto until smooth.
  5. Cook tortellini in salted boiling water according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Reserve some pasta water.
  6. Add drained tortellini to sauce, tossing gently. Adjust sauce thickness with reserved pasta water if needed. Serve hot with parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 28gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure the pepperoni is crisped well for optimal flavor. Melt cream cheese before adding it to prevent clumping. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

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