🧀✨ Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole
Creamy, cheesy, hearty, and packed with bold flavor — this casserole combines juicy ground beef, tender cheese tortellini, peppers, and a rich cream sauce baked under a golden, bubbly cheese topping. It’s comfort food at its finest and an easy weeknight dinner winner!
📝 Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 lb Italian sausage (optional — replace with more beef if preferred)
1 bag (20–24 oz) cheese tortellini
1 small onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups shredded mozzarella
1 cup shredded cheddar
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
Parsley, for garnish (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Brown the meat
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (and sausage, if using) with diced onion and garlic. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
2. Add the peppers
Stir in the diced red bell pepper and cook for 2–3 minutes to soften.
3. Build the creamy sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add the tortellini
Stir in the cheese tortellini and coat well in the sauce.
5. Assemble the casserole
Transfer everything to a baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the top.
6. Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.
7. Serve
Garnish with parsley and enjoy hot!
⭐ 20 Pro Tips for the Best Tortellini Casserole
Use fresh (refrigerated) tortellini — it cooks perfectly in the sauce.
Don’t overcook tortellini beforehand — it softens while baking.
Mix beef + sausage for the richest flavor.
Drain the meat well to avoid a greasy casserole.
Sauté onions until golden for deeper flavor.
Use smoked paprika for an extra layer of warmth.
Shred your own cheese for the best melting.
Add spinach for color and nutrients.
Use broth + cream combo for a velvety sauce without being too heavy.
Add mushrooms for a steakhouse-style twist.
Try provolone on top for cheesesteak vibes.
Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving — it thickens.
Add a splash of Worcestershire for a beefy boost.
Use a large skillet so everything mixes evenly.
Taste the sauce before baking to adjust seasoning.
Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half to lighten it up.
Use mild or spicy sausage depending on your flavor preference.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for freshness.
❓ 20 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Add it directly to the skillet — no need to thaw.
2. Can I use only ground beef?
Absolutely. Just replace sausage with an equal amount of beef.
3. Can I make it spicy?
Use hot Italian sausage or add chili flakes.
4. Can I use chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Yes — ground chicken or turkey works great.
5. Can I use different cheeses?
Try provolone, Colby Jack, or gouda for extra richness.
6. Will gluten-free tortellini work?
Yes, but check the cooking time — it may soften faster.
7. Can I add mushrooms?
Definitely — sauté them with the onions.
8. Can I add spinach?
Yes — add fresh spinach at the end before baking.
9. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but the sauce won’t be as thick or rich.
10. Can I prep this casserole ahead of time?
Yes — assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
11. Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
12. How do I reheat leftovers?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave in portions.
13. Can I add more vegetables?
Peas, zucchini, broccoli, or carrots work well.
14. Can I make this without dairy?
Use coconut cream + dairy-free cheese alternatives.
15. Can I double the recipe?
Yes — use a larger casserole dish.
16. Why is my casserole watery?
You used too much broth or didn’t simmer the sauce long enough.
17. Can I use canned mushrooms?
Yes, but drain them well.
18. What’s the best baking dish size?
A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly.
19. Can I add seasoning blends?
Steak seasoning, Cajun spices, or ranch mix taste amazing.
20. Can I serve this with sides?
Yes — salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies pair beautifully.
