Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Cheesy beef enchilada tortellini started out as a happy accident when I had leftover enchilada sauce and a pack of cheese tortellini in the fridge so I decided to throw them together with some ground beef and wow it turned out even better than I expected! The first bite was creamy cheesy and rich with just the right amount of spice and it quickly became a comfort food classic in our home.

Now I make it whenever I want something warm and satisfying without spending all night in the kitchen because the tortellini cooks fast and the sauce comes together in one pan then it’s all baked until bubbly and golden and honestly it feels like a fusion of two favorite meals rolled into one delicious dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Cheese tortellini – The soft cheesy pasta base that soaks up all the sauce beautifully.
• Ground beef – Adds hearty texture and classic flavor to the dish.
• Enchilada sauce – The bold and zesty base that ties everything together.
• Shredded cheese – Melts on top for that gooey irresistible finish.
• Onion – Adds savory depth to the beef mixture.
• Garlic – Gives the sauce a warm and aromatic backbone.
• Olive oil – Used to sauté the aromatics and beef.
• Salt and pepper – To bring out the full flavor of the dish.
• Fresh parsley – A pop of color and freshness for garnish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet – For cooking the beef and building the enchilada sauce.
• Pot – To boil the tortellini quickly and easily.
• Baking dish – For assembling and baking the final dish until hot and bubbly.
• Wooden spoon – For stirring the sauce and mixing everything together.
• Cheese grater – If you’re using fresh cheese which melts best.
• Knife – To chop onions and garlic.
• Cutting board – A clean surface to prep your ingredients.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by boiling the tortellini in salted water according to the package directions then I drain it and set it aside while I prepare the sauce.

Step 2:

In a large skillet I heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until it’s soft and golden then I add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3:

Next I add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned and fully crumbled seasoning with salt and pepper along the way for flavor.

Step 4:

Once the beef is ready I pour in the enchilada sauce and stir everything together letting it simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly and bring the flavors together.

Step 5:

I then gently stir in the cooked tortellini making sure each piece is coated with that rich beefy enchilada sauce and I transfer the whole mixture into a baking dish.

Step 6:

I sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top and bake the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 7:

Once it’s done I remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before topping with fresh parsley and serving it hot and cheesy.

Tips

If you want a little kick I recommend adding diced green chiles or jalapeños to the beef mixture. I’ve also tried this with shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef and it’s just as good! For extra creaminess you can stir in a spoonful of sour cream before baking.

Ways to Serve

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some warm garlic bread. I also like serving it with a dollop of sour cream and avocado slices on the side for a Tex-Mex twist. It makes amazing leftovers too and reheats well for lunch the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini for Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini?

Yes just cook it according to the package directions before mixing it into the sauce.

Can I make Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything ahead then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Is Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini spicy?

Not too much but you can easily adjust the spice by choosing mild or hot enchilada sauce or adding peppers.

Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini?

Yes this dish freezes well just let it cool completely before freezing and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this cheesy beef enchilada tortellini a try! It’s the perfect cozy mash-up of bold flavor and creamy pasta goodness and I’d love to know what you think. Leave a comment share your version or save it to make again and again!

Happy Cooking!

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