Cheeseburger Tortellini Skillet is the perfect fusion of a classic cheeseburger and creamy pasta, all made in one pan for a quick and satisfying meal. This dish features tender cheese-filled tortellini coated in a rich, savory beef and tomato sauce, infused with the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger.
Melted cheddar cheese ties everything together, creating a comforting, cheesy delight. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Whether you’re craving pasta or a burger, this skillet meal delivers both in one delicious bite, making it a go-to comfort food favorite!
Cheeseburger Tortellini Skillet
Description
Cheeseburger Tortellini Skillet is a delicious one-pan meal that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with tender, cheesy tortellini.
This hearty dish features seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese, all tossed together with pasta for a comforting, flavorful meal.
The addition of mustard, ketchup, and pickles gives it an authentic burger taste, while the skillet preparation makes it quick and easy to cook.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is family-friendly and satisfying. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Sauté the aromatics:
Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Add liquids:
Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, heavy cream, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
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Cook the tortellini:
Add the cheese tortellini directly into the skillet. Cover and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
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Add cheese:
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
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Top and serve:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the skillet. Cover and let it melt for 2 minutes. Garnish with chopped pickles and parsley if desired.
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Enjoy:
Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, comforting skillet meal!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 750kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 40g62%
- Saturated Fat 20g100%
- Cholesterol 80mg27%
- Total Carbohydrate 60g20%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 40g80%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Cheeseburger Tortellini Skillet: Tips & Serving Tricks
Cheeseburger Tortellini Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with tender, cheesy tortellini.
It’s a quick, satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. Here are some essential tips and tricks to make it even better!
Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Tortellini Skillet
1. Choose the Right Tortellini
- Fresh or refrigerated tortellini work best as they cook quickly and absorb the flavors well.
- If using frozen tortellini, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Use High-Quality Ground Beef
- An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) gives the dish a rich, juicy flavor.
- If using leaner beef (90/10), add a little olive oil or butter for extra moisture.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative.
3. Enhance the Cheeseburger Flavor
- Add mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or a dash of pickle juice to get that classic cheeseburger taste.
- A mix of cheddar and American cheese gives a creamy, melty texture.
4. Don't Overcook the Tortellini
- Since the pasta will continue to cook in the sauce, keep an eye on it to prevent mushiness.
- If using dried tortellini, pre-boil it before adding to the skillet.
5. Thicken the Sauce Perfectly
- If your sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to reduce.
- If too thick, add a splash of beef broth, milk, or cream to loosen it up.
6. Boost the Flavor with Seasonings
- Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper enhance the beefy, cheesy flavors.
- A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat.
7. Make It a One-Pan Meal
- Brown the beef in the skillet first, then add seasonings and sauce ingredients.
- Cook the tortellini directly in the sauce to absorb all the flavors.
Serving Tricks for the Ultimate Cheeseburger Tortellini Skillet
1. Toppings for Extra Flavor
- Classic Cheeseburger Toppings: Chopped pickles, diced onions, shredded lettuce, or fresh tomatoes add freshness and crunch.
- Bacon Crumbles: Crispy bacon bits add smokiness and extra flavor.
- Extra Cheese: Sprinkle more shredded cheddar or even Parmesan on top before serving.
2. Side Dishes That Pair Well
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh contrast to the rich dish.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add balance.
3. How to Serve It
- Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.
- If serving for a crowd, transfer to a casserole dish and keep warm in the oven.
4. Reheating and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to prevent drying out.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as the sauce can separate, but possible if stored properly.
Final Thoughts
Cheeseburger Tortellini Skillet is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to customize. With the right balance of flavors, textures, and toppings, it can be the perfect quick meal for any night. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and serving styles to make it your own!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Tortellini?
Yes! While cheese-filled tortellini is the most common choice, you can use meat or spinach-filled tortellini for added variety.
If you prefer a lower-carb option, you can swap the tortellini for zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi. Just keep in mind that different fillings may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the dish.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate, and the pasta can become mushy when thawed.
Can I Make This a One-Pot Meal?
Absolutely! To keep it a true one-skillet dish, brown the ground beef, then add uncooked tortellini along with about 1 cup of broth or water.
Let it simmer until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced. Stir in cheese and any additional seasonings before serving. This method eliminates extra dishes and enhances flavor by allowing the tortellini to absorb the sauce while cooking.
