Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a comforting and flavorful twist on classic enchiladas, combining tender tortellini with a spicy beef and creamy sauce. This easy casserole is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
• ½ cup cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the red enchilada sauce and cream cheese, stirring until smooth. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to the package directions for al dente. Drain well but do not rinse.
3. Step 3: Combine the cooked tortellini with the beef and sauce mixture in the skillet. Transfer everything to a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
5. Step 5: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a hotter enchilada sauce.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Try mixing in black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.
• If cream cheese is unavailable, use sour cream as a creamy alternative.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini; just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions and ensure it is drained well before mixing with the sauce.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

This casserole can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 40-50 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 100 reviews

This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a delightful fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors, combining tender cheese-filled tortellini with a rich, spiced ground beef and enchilada sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella and baked to bubbly perfection, it’s a comforting casserole perfect for any weeknight dinner.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-Italian Fusion

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
• ½ cup cream cheese

Pasta and Topping

• 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare Beef Filling: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, add the enchilada sauce and cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
2. Cook Tortellini: While preparing the beef mixture, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well but do not rinse to keep the pasta ready to absorb the sauce.
3. Combine and Assemble: Add the cooked tortellini directly to the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the flavorful sauce. Transfer this combined mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Bake: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden on top.
5. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired to add a bright, fresh flavor contrast.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Use mild or spicy enchilada sauce depending on your heat preference.
• For extra cheesiness, sprinkle some extra mozzarella or a mix of Mexican cheeses before baking.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.
• To save time, use pre-cooked or frozen tortellini but adjust cooking times accordingly.

Keywords: Beef Enchilada, Tortellini Casserole, Cheesy Tortellini, Mexican Pasta Bake, Ground Beef Recipe