If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, hearty, and downright delicious, this Cheesy Velveeta Tortellini with Italian Beef Marinara is calling your name. It’s a creamy, meaty, cheesy pasta dish that comes together in under 30 minutes perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekend indulgence. With tender cheese-stuffed tortellini, savory ground beef, tangy marinara, and melty Velveeta cheese, every bite is a warm hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultra-Creamy and Cheesy: Velveeta makes it velvety smooth with irresistible cheesy richness.
Family-Friendly Favorite: Kids and adults will clean their plates!
Quick & Easy: A full meal in under 30 minutes.
Satisfying & Hearty: Pasta + beef + cheese = the trifecta of comfort food.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
– 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10 oz cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
– 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
– 1/4 cup milk (or more for thinning, as needed)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional for topping)
– Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion until browned and cooked through.
Drain excess grease if needed. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to let the flavors meld. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Cook the Tortellini

Meanwhile, cook tortellini in salted boiling water according to package directions.
Drain and set aside.

3. Make it Cheesy

Add cubed Velveeta and milk to the beef marinara sauce. Stir until Velveeta is fully melted and creamy.
Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently fold everything together.

4. Optional: Bake with Cheese on Top

If desired, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle mozzarella on top, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

5. Serve

Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!

Prep Time

Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

– Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or garden salad cuts through the richness.
– Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up that extra cheesy sauce.
– Roasted Veggies: Add a pop of color and nutrition with broccoli or zucchini.

Tips and Variations

– Swap the Meat: Use ground Italian sausage, turkey, or plant-based beef.
– Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
– Use Homemade Marinara: Great for extra freshness and control over flavor.
– Add More Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers work beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, just cook according to the package and proceed as usual.

2. What can I substitute for Velveeta?
Cream cheese or shredded cheddar work in a pinch, but Velveeta gives the smoothest texture.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven with a splash of milk to revive the sauce.

4. Does this freeze well?
This dish is best fresh, but it can be frozen. Just know the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

5. How do I keep it from being too thick?
Add a little extra milk if your cheese sauce gets too thick.

6. Is this good for potlucks?
Yes! It travels well and keeps warm beautifully in a slow cooker.

7. Can I double the recipe?
Easily! Just make sure you use a large enough skillet or baking dish.

8. Is this kid-friendly?
Very much so! The creamy cheese and mild flavors make it a hit with picky eaters.

9. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes just omit the beef or use a meat substitute and stick with the marinara and cheese.

10. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Velveeta Tortellini with Italian Beef Marinara is your answer to a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that feels like it took hours but comes together in minutes. Perfectly creamy, satisfyingly meaty, and cheesy in all the best ways, it’s bound to become a favorite for busy nights and family dinners alike. Just one bite and you’ll see this dish is pure comfort in a bowl!

Print