Step 1

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add one-third of the beef and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until brown all over. Transfer to a heatproof bowl. Repeat, in 2 more batches, with the remaining beef, reheating pan between batches.

Step 2

Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes or until onion softens. Add the beef, tomato, water, tomato paste and sugar. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, for 1 1/2 hours or until beef is tender. Cook, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat. Add the parsley and basil, and stir to combine. Taste and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3

Meanwhile, cook the tortellini in a large saucepan of salted boiling water following packet directions. Drain well.

Step 4

Add the tortellini to the beef mixture and stir to combine. Sprinkle with parmesan and serve immediately.