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Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a must-try dish!

This one-skillet meal is where Tex-Mex meets Italian comfort food! Cheesy tortellini meets saucy enchilada-style ground beef for a fast and flavor-packed dinner. Melty cheese, bold spices, and a creamy finish make this fusion dish a weeknight win for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein:

  • 9 oz cheese tortellini (refrigerated)

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended for flavor)

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Spices:

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Sauce and Cheese:

  • 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce (red or green)

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • ¼ cup sour cream

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini:
    Boil the tortellini according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

  2. Brown the Beef:
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

  3. Add Aromatics:
    Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

  4. Spice It Up:
    Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.

  5. Add Sauce and Pasta:
    Pour in the enchilada sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the cooked tortellini and stir until well coated in the sauce.

  6. Melt the Cheese:
    Top the skillet with mozzarella and cheddar. Cover and let sit over low heat for 2–3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and gooey.

  7. Creamy Finish:
    Remove from heat, stir in the sour cream for added creaminess, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired.

Notes

  • Choose red enchilada sauce for a bold, smoky flavor or green sauce for a tangy twist.

  • Ground turkey or plant-based meat can be substituted for the beef.

  • Add black beans or corn for more texture and nutrition.

  • Leftovers reheat best with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.