Cheesy Enchilada Tortellini Beef

This creamy one-pot cheesy enchilada tortellini brings together the bold flavors of Tex-Mex and the comfort of pasta in less than 30 minutes. It is a crowd-pleasing, no-fuss dinner that is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling but easy to make and clean up.

I still remember the first time I tossed tortellini into an enchilada-style sauce for a quick dinner and realized my family loved it even more than the classic versions. Now it is a regular request whenever we want a feel-good meal with cheese and bold flavor.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: essential for making the meal filling and meaty Choose lean for best results
• Red enchilada sauce: gives the dish authentic flavor Look for a brand with simple ingredients and just a bit of heat
• Cheese tortellini: makes this meal hearty and fun Use fresh if possible for extra plumpness or frozen for convenience
• Shredded cheddar-jack cheese blend: melts perfectly and adds gooeyness Opt for a block and shred your own for best melt quality
• Sour cream: adds tang and creaminess Always use full-fat for best consistency in the sauce
• Olive oil: helps brown the meat and keep things rich Go for extra-virgin if you like robust flavor
• Yellow onion: brings sweetness and depth A small one is just right Chop it finely so it melts into the sauce
• Garlic powder and minced fresh garlic: double up for layered garlicky flavor Use fresh garlic that is plump and fragrant
• Smoked paprika: creates smoky background notes Spanish paprika is extra aromatic if you can find it
• Cumin: grounds the sauce with warmth Buy whole seeds and toast them for more flavor
• Chili powder: provides heat and color Use one you love the flavor of it really shines through
• Oregano: brightens and brings a hint of earthiness Go for Mexican oregano if possible
• Salt and black pepper: round out the seasoning Use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• Beef broth: is the perfect liquid base Choose low-sodium and good quality
• Fire roasted diced tomatoes: lend richness and a touch of char Choose a brand that lists tomatoes as the first ingredient
• Fresh chopped cilantro: adds freshness and color Wait until the very end so it pops

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high and add ground beef Use a wooden spoon to break it up and cook until browned throughout with no pink remaining This gives the meat texture and flavor

Soften the Onion:

Add finely diced onion to the browned beef Cook for about five minutes stirring occasionally until translucent and softened Softer onions melt into the sauce beautifully

Season and Boost Flavor:

Sprinkle in garlic powder smoked paprika cumin chili powder oregano salt and black pepper Stir everything to coat the meat fully Add minced fresh garlic and cook just one minute until you smell its aroma This step gives huge depth to your sauce

Build the Sauce:

Pour in beef broth undrained fire-roasted tomatoes and enchilada sauce Stir very well so everything combines evenly Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed so you love your sauce

Simmer the Tortellini:

Add cheese tortellini straight from the bag right into the skillet Briefly stir and bring to a simmer Cover and let bubble gently for seven to ten minutes stirring once or twice until the pasta is perfectly tender and has absorbed some flavors

Melt the Cheese:

Uncover the skillet and scatter over the shredded cheddar-jack cheese Stir until cheese is fully melted and creamy The sauce will turn smooth and luscious

Finish With Cream and Freshness:

Turn off the heat Add sour cream and quickly stir to blend it into the sauce making everything silky Spoon into bowls and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for bright flavor

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My favorite part of this dish is the way smoked paprika and chili powder combine to create a deep smoky heat I always make sure to use a good-quality cheese blend since nothing beats that stretchy topping My kids love swirling in extra sour cream before digging in and I have fond memories of everyone gathered around the dinner table with cheesy smiles

How to Store Leftovers

Let the skillet cool completely then scoop leftovers into airtight containers Refrigerate for up to three days for best flavor The pasta will thicken the sauce as it sits Add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it when reheating on the stovetop For freezing let the dish cool then store in freezer-safe containers for up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

Ground chicken or turkey works great in place of beef for a lighter take Skip beef broth and use vegetable broth for a more neutral base You can swap in any variety of cheese tortellini or even try ravioli for extra richness If you want extra veggies stir in a handful of bell peppers or baby spinach with the onions

Serving Ideas

This skillet dinner stands on its own but I love to serve it with a simple side salad or fresh avocado slices Warm tortillas or crusty bread are perfect for scooping up extra sauce Add extra hot sauce or pickled jalapenos at the table for heat lovers For a fun twist offer bowls of tortilla chips and let everyone dig in

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Cheesy Tortellini Meets Enchilada Inspiration

This recipe takes classic Tex-Mex enchilada ingredients and reimagines them as an ultra-cozy pasta skillet It is rooted in comfort food but packs in enough lively flavor to wow anyone who loves both Italian pasta and bold Mexican-inspired spices Enchilada sauce transforms ordinary cheese tortellini into something truly craveworthy

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, both fresh and frozen cheese tortellini work well. Adjust the cooking time if using frozen to ensure it's fully tender.

→ How can I make this less spicy?

Reduce or omit the chili powder and choose a mild enchilada sauce. You can also add extra sour cream to soften heat.

→ What garnish pairs well with this dish?

Freshly chopped cilantro is a vibrant topping. Diced green onions, avocado, or a squeeze of lime add extra brightness.

→ Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

Ground turkey, chicken, or crumbled plant-based alternatives offer a lighter or meat-free variation with similar results.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.