Nora
Imagine the ultimate comfort food where classic Mexican flavors meet cheesy Italian pasta. This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is everything you crave in a hearty weeknight dinner—tender tortellini tossed in a rich beefy enchilada sauce, smothered with gooey cheese, and baked to perfection. Each bite delivers that cozy, family-favorite warmth that makes you want to scoop up seconds.
The beauty of this dish is its balance. The savory ground beef melds with smoky enchilada sauce, while the tortellini adds a soft, cheesy bite. Topped with bubbling melted cheese, it’s a one-pan meal that’s both bold and comforting. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers convenience and flavor in one.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
This dish transforms weeknight cooking into something special. It’s simple to prepare, comes together quickly, and packs bold flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s kid-friendly and easily adjustable—you can make it spicier, cheesier, or sneak in extra veggies to suit your taste.
What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?
Fresh cheese tortellini is the best option for this recipe because it’s soft, flavorful, and cooks quickly in the sauce. If fresh isn’t available, frozen or shelf-stable tortellini also works—just adjust the cooking time slightly. For an extra twist, try spinach and ricotta tortellini for a boost of flavor and color.
Ingredients for the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in creating layers of flavor and texture. The beef brings savory richness, while the enchilada sauce infuses bold, smoky spice. Tortellini adds cheesy indulgence, and the melted mozzarella ties everything together with gooey comfort. Fresh cilantro and optional toppings finish the dish with brightness.
- Ground beef – hearty base with rich flavor.
- Enchilada sauce – smoky, tangy kick that defines the dish.
- Cheese tortellini – soft, cheesy pasta that soaks up the sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese – melty topping for that irresistible pull.
- Onion & garlic – classic aromatics to build flavor.
- Olive oil – for sautéing.
- Cilantro – fresh garnish that lightens the dish.
- Optional toppings: sour cream, jalapeños, or avocado slices.
How To Make the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Continue until browned and no longer pink.
Step 3: Stir in the Sauce
Pour in the enchilada sauce and let it simmer with the beef for a few minutes to deepen the flavor.
Step 4: Add the Tortellini
Stir in the tortellini, ensuring each piece is coated in the saucy mixture. Let them cook directly in the sauce until tender.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously on top. Cover and bake (or keep on stovetop with a lid) until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with fresh cilantro and any extra toppings you love. Serve hot straight from the pan.
Serving and Storing Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
This dish is generous and filling, easily serving 4–6 people depending on portion sizes. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a complete meal in one skillet. To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
What to Serve With Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini?
Garlic Bread
Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every bit of that saucy, cheesy goodness.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
The creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors of elote pair beautifully with the richness of this pasta.
Simple Green Salad
A crisp salad with light vinaigrette balances the heaviness of the cheesy pasta.
Guacamole and Chips
Creamy guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips makes a fun side or starter.
Roasted Vegetables
Add a tray of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
Black Beans or Refried Beans
A small bowl of seasoned beans rounds out the meal with fiber and protein.
Pickled Jalapeños
For spice lovers, tangy jalapeños on the side cut through the cheesy richness.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you love this Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini, you’ll want to try some of these comforting and creative pasta recipes from my collection:
- Creamy Beef and Shells – A Comforting One-Pan Delight
- Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
- Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
- Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
- Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta
Save This Pin For Later
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And when you do make it, let me know in the comments how it turned out! Did you go extra spicy with jalapeños, or add creamy avocado slices on top? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.
For even more delicious inspiration, explore my collection of beautifully curated dishes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite meal.
Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 20 oz cheese tortellini
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced jalapeños, avocado slices
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Pour in the enchilada sauce, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece in sauce. Cook until tortellini is tender.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Transfer skillet to the oven (or cover on stovetop) and bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and any optional toppings. Serve hot.