Introduction

Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini combines the comforting flavors of classic enchiladas with the delightful texture of cheese tortellini. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a family dinner or when you want a satisfying meal with a twist.

A black bowl filled with tortellini pasta covered in thick red meat sauce, with visible ground beef pieces mixed evenly throughout. The tortellini are yellow with a smooth, slightly glossy texture, and the sauce clings to them well. In the center, there is a dollop of white creamy cheese melted slightly, topped with chopped fresh green parsley. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface with soft natural light highlighting the dish’s textures and colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup enchilada sauce
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 4: Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes until they float.
Step 6: Drain the tortellini and set aside, careful not to overcook.
Step 7: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 8: In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini with the beef mixture, folding gently to coat evenly.
Step 9: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 10: Transfer tortellini and beef mixture into the dish, spreading evenly.
Step 11: Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top, covering well.
Step 12: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the sauce.
Step 13: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
Step 14: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Step 15: Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges turn slightly golden.
Step 16: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Add a handful of corn kernels for additional texture and sweetness.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for added freshness and creaminess.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out. This dish can also be frozen; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a black skillet filled with a rich tortellini pasta dish, showing three main layers: at the bottom, a deep red tomato sauce mixed evenly with browned ground meat; on top of that, plump yellow tortellini pasta pieces partially submerged in the sauce; and dotted over the surface, creamy white melted cheese balls sprinkled with fresh green herb leaves, likely parsley or cilantro, adding a fresh touch. The skillet sits on a wooden surface with a slightly blurred green plant in the background, and the lighting highlights the glossy texture of the sauce and the soft, melty cheese. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?

Yes, cheese tortellini works best for this recipe, but you can substitute with ravioli or small stuffed pasta varieties for a similar effect.

Is this recipe spicy?

The dish has a mild spice level from the diced tomatoes with green chilies and taco seasoning, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding extra chili peppers or hot sauce.