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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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Fusion (Tex-Mex & Italian)
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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

Method
 

  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.