Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Name: Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican Italian Fusion
Ingredients: 9 oz cheese tortellini; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce (red or green); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ¼ cup sour cream

Published: May 25, 2025

by Sofia

Pinterest Facebook WhatsApp X Yummly

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a delightful fusion dish that perfectly marries the comforting flavors of cheese tortellini with savory ground beef and rich enchilada sauce. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a unique twist that will impress your family and friends. With melty cheese and a hint of spice, this dish stands out in any meal lineup!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and creamy cheese creates an unforgettable taste.
Versatile Meal: Great as a hearty main course or served as a side dish at gatherings.
Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness makes it appealing to both kids and adults.
One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is required as most cooking happens in one skillet!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make preparing Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Cooking pot
Colander
Wooden spoon
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Ideal for browning the beef and mixing all ingredients together efficiently.
Cooking pot: Necessary for boiling the tortellini to perfection before adding it to the skillet.

Ingredients

A creative fusion dish combining cheese tortellini with seasoned ground beef and enchilada sauce, topped with melty cheese and sour cream!

For the Tortellini Base

9 oz cheese tortellini
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

For Seasoning

1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce

1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce (red or green)

For Topping

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup sour cream

Fresh cilantro, chopped

How to Make Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef while breaking it apart. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Add Onions and Garlic

Add onion and garlic to the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

Step 5: Combine with Enchilada Sauce

Add enchilada sauce to the skillet and let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors. Toss in cooked tortellini to coat evenly.

Step 6: Cheese Meltdown

Top with mozzarella and cheddar. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 minutes until melted.

Step 7: Finish Off

Remove from heat, stir in sour cream. Garnish with cilantro before serving hot.

This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini recipe serves up to four people with an irresistible flavor profile that will keep everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy your culinary creation!

How to Serve Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Serving Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

Pair with Fresh Salads

Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: This creamy and tangy salad complements the enchilada flavors.
Cilantro Lime Slaw: The crunch and zesty taste balance the richness of the tortellini.

Add Toppings

Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast and creaminess.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado enhances the dish’s texture while adding healthy fats.
Chopped Jalapeños: For those who enjoy spice, fresh jalapeños add heat and flavor.

Serve with Breads

Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Cornbread Muffins: These add a sweet touch that pairs beautifully with the savory tortellini.

How to Perfect Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

To achieve the best results with Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh tortellini: Fresh pasta cooks faster and has a better texture than dried options.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before adding tortellini; adjust spices as needed for your palate.
Brown beef well: Ensure the ground beef is nicely browned for added flavor depth in the dish.
Experiment with cheese: Try mixing different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
Add veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color in your dish.
Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking when the cheese is melty and gooey.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal featuring Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini. Here are some great options to consider.

Spanish Rice: A flavorful rice dish seasoned with spices complements the robust flavors of enchiladas.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a hearty addition and pair well with Mexican cuisine.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add a smoky flavor that balances out the richness of the tortellini.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa offer a fun appetizer before the main course.
Guacamole: The creamy texture of guacamole enhances each bite while adding an extra layer of flavor.
Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas make for a delightful side that adds more cheesy goodness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

Using the wrong type of tortellini: Always opt for cheese tortellini as it pairs best with enchilada flavors. Avoid using other pasta types, which can alter the dish’s taste.
Overcooking the beef: Be sure to brown the ground beef only until fully cooked. Overcooking can make it tough and chewy.
Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to add spices like chili powder and cumin. Seasoning enhances flavor and makes your dish truly delicious.
Not draining excess fat: Failing to drain the fat after cooking the beef can lead to a greasy final dish. Always take this step for better texture.
Neglecting garnishes: Adding fresh cilantro and sour cream elevates your dish. Don’t skip these toppings that provide freshness and creaminess.

Refrigerator Storage

Keep leftovers in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini?

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a fusion dish that combines cheese-filled tortellini with seasoned ground beef and enchilada sauce, topped with melted cheese and sour cream.

Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?

Yes! Using homemade enchilada sauce can enhance the flavor profile of your Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini.

How do I customize my Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini?

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or by using different cheeses according to your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and maintains its flavor after reheating.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is not just a comforting meal; it’s also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special, this dish fits the bill perfectly. Try adding your favorite toppings or extra ingredients to make it truly your own!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!