Beef Enchilada Tortellini

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Take everything you love about cheesy beef enchiladas and mix it with tender, pillowy tortellini pasta, and you’ve got a hearty, comforting dish that hits all the right notes. This one-pan Beef Enchilada Tortellini is bold, satisfying, and perfect for those nights when you crave something rich and indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.

Combining classic Tex-Mex flavors with the richness of Italian tortellini, this fusion dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The creamy cheese, seasoned beef, and saucy enchilada blend create an irresistibly cozy meal that the whole family will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Beef Enchilada Tortellini

• One-pan wonder: Fewer dishes to clean, more time to enjoy.
• Bold flavor fusion: Combines cheesy enchiladas and creamy tortellini in one bite.
• Quick and easy: On the table in under 30 minutes.
• Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters love this pasta-meets-enchilada mashup.

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What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini is the best choice for this recipe. It cooks quickly and absorbs all the saucy, meaty goodness. You can also use frozen tortellini—just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly. Avoid dry tortellini if possible, as it won’t deliver the same tenderness or flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try spinach or beef-filled tortellini for a fun twist!

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Ingredients for the Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Every ingredient in this dish plays a role in building deep, rich flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef: The hearty base of the dish that brings savory flavor and richness.
• Yellow onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• Garlic cloves: For a bold aromatic boost that enhances the meat.
• Enchilada sauce: The soul of the dish—look for a smoky, mildly spicy variety.
• Tomato sauce: Helps balance the enchilada sauce and adds extra body.
• Cheese tortellini: The comforting pasta that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend: Melts beautifully for that ooey-gooey top layer.
• Sour cream: Adds creaminess and a hint of tang that ties everything together.
• Fresh cilantro: Optional but adds a bright, fresh finish.

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How To Make the Beef Enchilada Tortellini

This dish is all about building flavor in layers, then finishing with a melty, cheesy finish.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and chopped onions, cooking until the meat is browned and onions are softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Sauces

Pour in the enchilada sauce and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

Add the tortellini directly into the skillet. Cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and heated through.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt for a couple of minutes. Just before serving, add dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro if using.

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Serving and Storing Beef Enchilada Tortellini

This dish is perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. The recipe serves 4 to 6 people generously, making it ideal for a family dinner or casual get-together. Serve it straight from the skillet for a cozy, no-fuss presentation.

To store leftovers, transfer the tortellini to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

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What to Serve With Beef Enchilada Tortellini?

While this dish stands strong on its own, here are a few simple sides to elevate the meal:

Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Sweet, smoky, and a little spicy, this grilled corn with cotija cheese and lime pairs perfectly with the cheesy richness of the tortellini.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp green salad with avocado, tomatoes, and a citrusy vinaigrette brings freshness and balance to the plate.

Garlic Bread

It may lean Italian, but the garlicky crunch is a fun twist and helps scoop up all that saucy goodness.

Black Beans or Refried Beans

For extra protein and fiber, a side of well-seasoned beans rounds out the meal beautifully.

Chips and Guacamole

Because creamy guac and crunchy tortilla chips never go out of style, especially when Tex-Mex flavors are involved.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well in this recipe. Just be sure to increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes, and check that the pasta is tender before serving.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely. Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or black beans. Use vegetable-based enchilada sauce and the rest stays the same.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the beef and sauce mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it, add the tortellini, and finish the rest of the steps.

What if I don’t have enchilada sauce?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing tomato sauce with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a touch of smoked paprika. Or check out our Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe.

How can I make it spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or use a spicy enchilada sauce. You can also serve it with hot sauce or sliced fresh chilies on top.

For more comfort meals with a twist, check out our One-Pot Taco Pasta and Creamy Chicken Enchilada Skillet!

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