Looking for a comforting yet exciting dinner idea? Beef Enchilada Tortellini is your weeknight dinner hero—a fast, flavorful fusion of Tex-Mex and Italian comfort food. This easy recipe features cheesy tortellini smothered in enchilada sauce, seasoned beef, and a creamy cheese finish. Perfect for when you need a quick dinner, crave bold flavors, or want new food ideas to shake up your meal routine. Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding the whole family, this dish delivers with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. It’s the best kind of hybrid: cozy, spicy, cheesy, and fast!
The mix of flavors in Beef Enchilada Tortellini creates a unique dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The hearty ground beef, combined with the flavorful spices and rich enchilada sauce, envelops the cheese-filled tortellini creating a burst of taste in every bite. Not to mention, it’s all ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Plus, the creamy cheesy finish ensures that this dish is both satisfying and comforting, a real treat after a long day.
Why You’ll Love This Beef Enchilada Tortellini
- It’s a delightful fusion of two beloved cuisines—Tex-Mex and Italian.
- Preparation is quick and easy, taking only 30 minutes.
- This dish is packed with flavor, thanks to the spices and cheese.
- It’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup after cooking.
- Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this flavorful recipe, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by clearing your counter and ensuring you have enough space to work with. You’ll need a large skillet or frying pan to cook the beef and a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon for stirring. Grab a measuring cup, measuring spoons, and a can opener for the enchilada sauce. A large spoon will also come in handy for serving the finished dish. Prepping everything ahead of time makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it browns. It’s important to cook the beef thoroughly until it’s nicely browned, which adds a lot of flavor to the dish.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Next, incorporate the spices to infuse the beef with a rich flavor profile. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, along with salt and pepper. Stir well to ensure each piece of meat is evenly coated with the spices. This step enhances the overall taste of your Beef Enchilada Tortellini.
Step 3: Mix in Enchilada Sauce and Broth
Once the beef is fully seasoned and browned, it’s time to add some moisture to the mix. Pour in the red enchilada sauce and the beef broth (or water). Stir everything together and allow it to come to a gentle simmer. This will create a saucy base that envelops the tortellini beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
Now, introduce the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the bubbling sauce. Lower the heat slightly to prevent the sauce from boiling over, then cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the tortellini doesn’t stick together. Your pasta should be tender and cooked to your liking.
Step 5: Add Creaminess
For the final touch, reduce the heat and stir in the sour cream and shredded Mexican cheese. Keep stirring until everything is combined and melted into a creamy consistency. This step elevates your dish, giving it that comforting, gooey texture we all crave.
Step 6: Final Simmer
Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce slightly, making it rich and velvety. That’s when your Beef Enchilada Tortellini reaches its peak deliciousness!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Chop some fresh cilantro or slice green onions to sprinkle on top of your dish for garnish. This adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the overall presentation. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter dish.
- Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach to pack even more nutrition and flavor into the recipe.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or taco seasoning for a unique twist on the original flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the beef to get a good sear.
- For a little extra heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes during the cooking process.
- If you enjoy a thicker sauce, let it simmer for an additional few minutes after adding the sour cream and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh side salad or warm tortillas.
- For added crunch, serve with tortilla chips on the side.
Tips
- To save time, use frozen tortellini—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- This dish can be made ahead and baked in the oven with some extra cheese on top for a deliciously crunchy finish.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 480 per serving
- Protein: 35 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
FAQs
Can I use non-dairy alternatives?
Absolutely! You can use non-dairy cheese and sour cream alternatives to make this dish dairy-free.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat it in the microwave for quick meals.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
What can I serve with Beef Enchilada Tortellini?
This dish pairs well with a side of Mexican rice, beans, or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
Beef Enchilada Tortellini is more than just a dinner recipe; it’s an experience that brings together the best of Tex-Mex and Italian cuisines into one delicious dish. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness, it’s bound to become a favorite among your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try out variations and make it your own! We encourage you to share your cooking successes and any exciting twists you added to this dish in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Beef Enchilada Tortellini
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delicious fusion of Tex-Mex and Italian comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it browns. It’s important to cook the beef thoroughly until it’s nicely browned, which adds a lot of flavor to the dish.
- Next, incorporate the spices to infuse the beef with a rich flavor profile. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, along with salt and pepper. Stir well to ensure each piece of meat is evenly coated with the spices. This step enhances the overall taste of your Beef Enchilada Tortellini.
- Once the beef is fully seasoned and browned, it’s time to add some moisture to the mix. Pour in the red enchilada sauce and the beef broth (or water). Stir everything together and allow it to come to a gentle simmer. This will create a saucy base that envelops the tortellini beautifully.
- Now, introduce the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the bubbling sauce. Lower the heat slightly to prevent the sauce from boiling over, then cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the tortellini doesn’t stick together. Your pasta should be tender and cooked to your liking.
- For the final touch, reduce the heat and stir in the sour cream and shredded Mexican cheese. Keep stirring until everything is combined and melted into a creamy consistency. This step elevates your dish, giving it that comforting, gooey texture we all crave.
- Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce slightly, making it rich and velvety. That’s when your Beef Enchilada Tortellini reaches its peak deliciousness!
- Once thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Chop some fresh cilantro or slice green onions to sprinkle on top of your dish for garnish. This adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the overall presentation. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Notes
Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the beef to get a good sear. For a little extra heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes during the cooking process. If you enjoy a thicker sauce, let it simmer for an additional few minutes after adding the sour cream and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Protein: 35 g