If you are searching for a fun twist on two beloved classics, then this Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to meal. Combining the bold, spicy flavors of enchiladas with the comforting, cheesy goodness of tortellini, this dish delivers a satisfying punch that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week. It’s quick to prepare, wonderfully simple, and packs a vibrant flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to shine in your recipe rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe. From seasoned ground beef to creamy cheese, every component adds something special to the dish.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base of this dish providing rich flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix: Infuses the beef with classic Mexican spices for that authentic enchilada taste.
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce: Adds depth and a slight tangy heat that coats the tortellini beautifully.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained: Brings freshness and a subtle kick of heat to the dish.
- 3 cups cheese tortellini, uncooked: The chewy, cheesy pasta that makes this recipe uniquely delicious.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps cook the tortellini while blending all flavors smoothly.
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend: A melty, flavorful topping that ties the dish together perfectly.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a bright, herbaceous finish to the dish.
- Optional toppings (sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions): Customize each serving with these cool, spicy, and fresh additions.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. This process takes about 5 to 7 minutes and releases all those savory flavors. Once browned, be sure to drain any excess fat so the dish doesn’t turn greasy but retains that juicy richness.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Sauces
Next, stir in the taco seasoning mix, red enchilada sauce, and diced tomatoes with green chilies right into the skillet with the beef. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly lets the meat soak up that spicy, tangy goodness that defines enchiladas, setting a vibrant flavor foundation for the recipe.
Step 3: Combine with Tortellini and Water
Time to add the star pasta ingredient: uncooked cheese tortellini. Pour it into the skillet along with a bit of water to help everything meld together as it cooks. Give the mixture a good stir so the tortellini gets evenly coated and ready to absorb those tasty juices.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the tortellini to soften perfectly while soaking up the delicious enchilada sauce and spices, creating an irresistible, hearty blend.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the tortellini is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the top—this will add that creamy, melty texture that makes this dish so crave-worthy.
Step 6: Let the Cheese Melt
Cover the skillet again and let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes. This gentle hold-in-place step lets the cheese melt into gooey perfection, coating the beef and pasta with a luscious cheesy layer that you and your guests are going to love.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the dish for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Feel free to top with sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or chopped green onions to bring in cool, spicy, and crunchy notes for a personalized finish.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
This Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe shines with just the right garnishes. A dollop of sour cream adds cooling creaminess, jalapeño slices deliver an extra spicy kick, and fresh green onions contribute a mild crunch. These accents not only elevate the flavors but make every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
Pairing this dish with complementary sides transforms it into a full feast. Consider a crisp green salad or a scoop of Mexican rice on the side to balance the richness. A side of warm tortilla chips with guacamole can add a fun, textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family dinner, serve the Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe right from the skillet to keep it warm and inviting. If you’re entertaining, plate individual portions with a sprinkle of cheese and cilantro on top, using colorful bowls to highlight those vibrant reds and greens that make this dish pop visually.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days and the flavors often deepen, making your next meal just as delightful.
Freezing
Freeze leftover Beef Enchilada Tortellini by placing it into a freezer-safe container. It can stay frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the dish gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. A splash of water or broth can help restore the sauce’s consistency if needed. Microwave reheating works well too, just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen or uncooked?
Absolutely! Fresh tortellini will cook a bit faster, so reduce the simmering time to avoid overcooking. The flavors will still meld beautifully with the enchilada sauce and seasoned beef.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe has a nice mild-to-medium spice level due to the taco seasoning and green chilies. You can always adjust by adding more jalapeños or spicy toppings if you love heat, or tone it down for kids or sensitive palates.
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based crumble would work well. Just brown the alternative protein similarly before adding the other ingredients.
What kind of cheese blend should I use?
A shredded Mexican cheese blend often includes cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso quesadilla, and is perfect here for meltability and flavor. If you cannot find it, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works nicely too.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It’s easy to make in advance, store in portions, and reheat quickly on busy days. The flavors actually get better after a day or two in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe is a total game-changer, bringing together the best of Mexican and Italian comfort foods in one satisfying, easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s bound to become a staple on your table. Give it a try and enjoy all the rich, cheesy, spicy goodness in every bite!
Print
Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Description
This hearty Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a flavorful fusion dish combining classic Mexican enchilada flavors with tender cheese tortellini. Ground beef simmers in a spicy blend of enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning, then combines with cheese tortellini to create a comforting and cheesy one-pan meal. Topped with melted Mexican cheese blend and fresh cilantro, it’s perfect for a quick dinner that delivers bold tastes with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Pasta and Cheese
- 3 cups cheese tortellini, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup water
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break the meat apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Add Seasonings and Sauces: Stir into the skillet the taco seasoning mix, red enchilada sauce, and undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies. Mix everything well so the beef is fully coated with the flavorful sauce combination.
- Combine Tortellini: Add the uncooked cheese tortellini and 1/2 cup of water to the skillet. Stir gently to evenly distribute the tortellini within the saucy beef mixture.
- Simmer to Cook Tortellini: Bring the skillet mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.
- Add Cheese Topping: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Melt the Cheese: Cover the skillet again and let it sit, off the heat, for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top. Add optional toppings such as sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and chopped green onions as desired before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and cheesy beef enchilada tortellini!
Notes
- Use fresh cilantro for the best flavor in garnish.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Tortellini cooks quickly, so keep an eye on the texture to avoid overcooking.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 3 days.
