Description
This French Onion Tortellini recipe transforms the classic comforting flavors of French onion soup into a hearty and satisfying pasta dish. Frozen tortellini are baked in a rich, savory broth made from French onion soup and beef consommé, then topped with nutty Gruyère cheese for a melty, bubbly finish. This is an easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve to guests. It requires minimal prep, and the oven does most of the work, making it a winner for busy cooks.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb frozen tortellini (cheese, mushroom, or beef-filled works well)
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed French onion soup, undiluted
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed beef consommé, undiluted
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pats
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Add the frozen tortellini to the prepared baking dish, spreading them in an even layer.
Step 3: Pour the undiluted French onion soup and beef consommé over the tortellini.
Step 4: Dot the top of the tortellini with pats of butter, distributing them evenly.
Step 5: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Step 6: Bake for 20 minutes.
Step 7: Remove the foil, stir the tortellini gently to ensure even cooking, and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.
Step 8: Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese evenly over the top of the tortellini.
Step 9: Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the Gruyère cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Step 10: Let the dish stand for a few minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. The combination of savory French onion soup and cheesy tortellini is simply irresistible. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal hands-on time, and it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, the one-pan cooking makes cleanup a breeze!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth.
- A simple green salad complements the richness of the tortellini.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, sauté some sliced onions in butter until caramelized before adding them to the baking dish.
- If you don’t have Gruyère cheese, you can substitute it with Swiss, Fontina, or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan.
- To prevent the cheese from browning too quickly, tent the baking dish with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or spinach, to the dish for added nutrients and flavor.
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
45 minutes
Total Time:
55 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories:
Approximately 450-550 per serving
Protein:
25-35g per serving
Sodium:
800-1000mg per serving
Conclusion
This French Onion Tortellini recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of French onion soup in a new and exciting way. It’s a comforting, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and you’ll be amazed at how simple and delicious it is!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tortellini, but you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly. Check the tortellini for doneness after about 30 minutes of baking.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure the tortellini is cooked through.
Q3: I don’t like Gruyère cheese. What else can I use?
A: Swiss cheese, Fontina cheese, or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese would all be good substitutes for Gruyère.
Q4: Can I add meat to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or Italian sausage would all be delicious additions. Add the cooked meat to the baking dish along with the tortellini.
Q5: Is this recipe spicy?
A: No, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the baking dish for a little bit of heat.
