Name: Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini; 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce; ½ cup cream cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp chili powder; ½ tsp ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

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Introduction

This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a comforting and flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas. Combining tender cheese tortellini with savory ground beef and a rich enchilada sauce, it’s an easy one-pan meal perfect for weeknights.

A white pan filled with a rich, orange-colored sauce covering a layer of cooked ground meat mixed with black beans. On top of this sauce, there is a single thick layer of bright yellow tortellini pasta, each piece showing detailed folded edges and a smooth texture. In the center of the dish, a dollop of white sour cream sits, topped with scattered fresh green cilantro leaves that add a pop of color. The pan rests on a gray cloth over a white marbled surface, with some green cilantro blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
½ cup cream cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 2: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Cook until the beef is browned, then drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Pour in the red enchilada sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Add the cream cheese in chunks and stir continuously until it melts completely and combines smoothly with the sauce.
Step 5: Gently fold in the cheese tortellini. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 5–7 minutes, until the tortellini is tender and heated through.
Step 6: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, or place under a broiler briefly until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a spicy kick.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Add diced green chilies or jalapeños for more heat.
To make it vegetarian, replace beef with sautéed mushrooms or black beans.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or sauce can help maintain creaminess while reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a black skillet filled with one layer of cooked tortellini pasta, golden yellow in color with soft, folded edges. The pasta is mixed evenly with browned ground meat pieces and covered in a reddish-orange tomato-based sauce that looks rich and slightly thick. Fresh green herb leaves, likely parsley or cilantro, are scattered on top, adding a fresh contrast to the warm colors of the dish. The skillet rests on a white marbled surface, with a gray cloth napkin to the side and some fresh herbs visible in the corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, but increase the cooking time slightly and be sure to thaw them before adding to ensure even heating.

Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the beef mixture and combine with tortellini ahead of time. Refrigerate the mixture, then heat and add cheese before serving.