Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

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Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is the ultimate fusion comfort food you didn’t know you needed. It combines the bold, zesty flavors of a classic beef enchilada with the rich, cheesy goodness of Italian tortellini. The result is a hearty, creamy, and flavor-packed dinner that comes together in one skillet with minimal effort.

Every bite of this dish is layered with seasoned ground beef, cheesy tortellini, a luscious enchilada-style sauce, and a melty cheddar finish. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when you just want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this is comfort food made easy.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

• One-pan recipe for quick cleanup.
• A delicious mash-up of Tex-Mex and Italian favorites.
• Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Family-friendly and kid-approved.
• Freezer-friendly and perfect for leftovers.

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What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini works best for this recipe because it cooks quickly and absorbs the enchilada flavors perfectly. You can also use frozen tortellini; just adjust the cooking time slightly. Avoid dried tortellini, as it takes much longer to cook and may not soak up the sauce as well. Cheese-stuffed tortellini is ideal, but you can also try beef or spinach varieties for a different twist.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

This recipe comes together with a handful of everyday ingredients that deliver maximum flavor. Each one has its role in building this rich and cheesy dish.

• Ground Beef – The star of the dish, seasoned and browned for savory depth.
• Cheese Tortellini – Brings cheesy Italian comfort to the enchilada party.
• Enchilada Sauce – A bold, zesty sauce that ties the whole dish together.
• Diced Tomatoes – Adds body and a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
• Onion – Sauteed with the beef for aromatic sweetness.
• Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, savory kick.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melted on top for that perfect gooey, cheesy finish.
• Sour Cream – Optional, but adds a cool and creamy topping.
• Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the dish with a burst of freshness.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.

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How To Make the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

This dish is fast and simple. Follow these steps to make this cheesy, satisfying skillet meal.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until fully browned. Drain excess fat and stir in the garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Sauce and Tomatoes

Pour in the enchilada sauce and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Add the Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini straight into the sauce. Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it melt, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with dollops of sour cream and fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy the melty, meaty, cheesy goodness.

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Serving and Storing Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

This recipe serves 4 hearty portions and is perfect as a complete meal. The combination of protein, carbs, and cheese means it doesn’t need much else to feel satisfying. Serve it hot straight from the skillet for the best taste and texture.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in a microwave or skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

This dish is also freezer-friendly. Freeze in individual portions for quick, comforting meals on demand. Just thaw and reheat as needed.

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What to Serve With Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini?

Pair this flavorful main with sides that balance its richness and spice. Here are some tasty ideas:

Mexican Street Corn

A sweet and spicy side with mayo, chili powder, cotija, and lime.

Green Salad with Lime Vinaigrette

Fresh greens and citrus dressing provide a refreshing contrast.

Garlic Bread

Because cheesy sauce and garlic toast are a match made in heaven.

Refried Beans

Classic and comforting, they round out the meal nicely.

Avocado Slices

Creamy avocado cools things down and adds healthy fats.

Tortilla Chips and Salsa

Crunchy and zesty, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.

Roasted Bell Peppers

A colorful, sweet, and savory addition to the plate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes! Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time and make sure the tortellini is fully cooked before serving.

2. What’s the best type of enchilada sauce for this recipe?
You can use red enchilada sauce for a classic flavor or green enchilada sauce for a tangier twist. Mild or medium heat levels both work well, depending on your preference.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Make the entire dish and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce smooth.

4. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Swap the ground beef for black beans or plant-based meat crumbles, and it still turns out delicious and hearty.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Definitely. Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend are great alternatives to cheddar and melt beautifully.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Did you make it spicy? Add your favorite toppings? I’d love to hear what creative twists you tried!

Explore more bold, easy, and delicious dinner ideas on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover a world of flavor inspiration.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a fusion masterpiece that hits all the right notes – creamy, savory, and just the right amount of spice. It’s comfort food with a twist, perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining. With just one pan and under 30 minutes, you’ll have a dinner that’s guaranteed to satisfy.

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