This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is the ultimate comfort food mashup you didn’t know you needed. Imagine tender cheese-filled tortellini smothered in a rich, spiced enchilada-style beef sauce, all wrapped in a creamy, cheesy embrace. It’s a one-pan, weeknight wonder that brings the best of Mexican-inspired flavors to a cozy pasta dish the whole family will crave.

Perfect for busy evenings or when you’re simply craving something indulgent, this recipe is a satisfying twist on the classic enchilada. The gooey cheese, savory beef, and pillowy tortellini make every bite a delicious experience. Bonus: it comes together quickly and uses ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or fridge.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create this dish with ease and minimal cleanup, you’ll want the following kitchen tools ready:

Large Skillet or Deep Sauté Pan: This one-pan meal calls for a spacious skillet that allows you to brown the beef, mix in the sauce, and toss in the tortellini all in one place. It saves time and dishes.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Great for breaking up the ground beef and ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To get that perfect flavor balance, precise measurements of the sauce and seasonings are key.

Colander (optional): If you’re using frozen tortellini and need to boil it first, a colander will help drain it.
Grater (optional): For freshly shredded cheese if you’re going the extra mile with melt-in-your-mouth topping.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a role in building deep, savory, cheesy flavor:

Ground Beef: The hearty base that brings protein and a rich, savory depth to the dish.
Cheese Tortellini: These tender pasta pillows are filled with cheese, making them the perfect carrier for the sauce.
Red Enchilada Sauce: Brings all the signature Mexican flavor—smoky, tangy, and just a little spicy.

Sour Cream: Adds a luscious, creamy texture and balances the spice.
Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend: Melts into the sauce for extra gooeyness and richness.
Garlic and Onion Powder: Amplify the savory flavors in a quick and easy way.

Olive Oil: Used to cook the beef and enhance overall flavor.
Fresh Cilantro (optional): For a bright, herbal finish.

How To Make the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Add Flavor Layers

Sprinkle in garlic powder and onion powder. Stir to combine and let them cook for 1 minute to release their aromas.

Step 3: Pour in the Enchilada Sauce

Reduce heat to low and pour in the red enchilada sauce. Stir and let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes so the flavors can blend.

Step 4: Mix in the Tortellini

Add cooked cheese tortellini directly into the sauce. Gently fold everything together so the pasta is coated in the flavorful beefy enchilada mixture.

Step 5: Stir in Sour Cream

Turn off the heat and add the sour cream. Stir gently to create a creamy, velvety sauce that hugs every bite.

Step 6: Cheese it Up

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover with a lid and let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve immediately while hot and melty.

How to Serve and Store This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Serve this dish straight from the skillet while it’s piping hot. It’s perfect on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or buttery garlic bread. Add an extra dollop of sour cream or sprinkle more cilantro on top for a restaurant-style finish.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container once cooled. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

This dish also freezes well—just skip the final cheese topping until you’re ready to reheat and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, but cheese tortellini adds a creamy, rich texture that complements the enchilada sauce. You could sub in rotini or penne if needed.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not particularly, but it depends on the brand of enchilada sauce you use. Choose mild or hot based on your spice preference.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare everything except the final cheese topping. Store it in the fridge, then reheat and melt the cheese right before serving.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken work well. Even meatless crumbles are a great option for a vegetarian version.

Can I add veggies?

Totally! Diced bell peppers, corn, or even spinach can be added during the simmering stage for more texture and nutrients.

How can I make it more indulgent?

Stir in a little cream cheese or drizzle with queso before serving for extra richness.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for a rich and creamy oven-baked treat.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta if you’re craving something cozy and packed with flavor.

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for a delicious garlic-forward twist.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce with a luxurious texture.
Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta if you’re feeling bold with Caribbean heat.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra toppings? Try it with different pasta shapes?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A rich and comforting one-skillet dish with cheesy tortellini, seasoned beef, and creamy enchilada sauce. This hearty, flavorful dinner is ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for busy nights.