Beef Tortini
Beef Tortini is a hearty layered casserole combining seasoned beef, spinach, cottage cheese, and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook beef and chopped onion in a skillet until browned.
- Add Prego sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Have a 13 x 9-inch baking pan ready.
- Mix thawed and well-drained spinach with cottage cheese in a bowl.
- Spread one-third of the meat mixture evenly in the prepared pan.
- Layer with half of the spinach and half of the remaining meat mixture.
- Repeat the layering process, ending with the meat mixture on top.
- Top with shredded Mozzarella cheese and sliced mushrooms.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Mel'S Spaghetti Sauce instead of Prego, or mix in some Italian herbs like oregano and basil. If you prefer, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even a meat substitute for a lighter version. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to avoid a watery dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Beef Tortini with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish. It also pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Peg'S Lasagna for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Tortini contains roughly 561 calories, with 45g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (89% of the Daily Value), calcium (69% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1255mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Beef Tortini?
Yes, Beef Tortini can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
You can substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese to achieve a creamier texture. Greek yogurt can also be used for a healthier option, but it will alter the flavor slightly. Ensure any substitute is well-blended with the spinach.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the beef and replace it with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even a meat alternative. Also, ensure the sauce is vegetarian-friendly, which many store-bought sauces are.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).