Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a fun twist mixing the best of two worlds—tender tortellini filled with beef and smothered in a flavorful enchilada sauce. With a cheesy, slightly spicy tomato sauce that hugs every little pasta pocket, this dish is full of bold flavors and comforting textures that I know you’re going to love.
What I really enjoy about this recipe is how easy it is to make but still feels like a special dinner. The beef adds a hearty bite, and the enchilada sauce brings a nice kick without being too hot. I like to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top and pop it in the oven for a few minutes until it’s bubbling and golden—makes it extra cozy and tasty.
This is a great meal to bring the family together, especially when everyone wants something filling and warm but a little different than the usual pasta night. I always find that it’s a big hit whether I’m serving it up for a casual weeknight or a weekend meal. I recommend pairing it with a simple side salad or some fresh guacamole to balance out all that cheesy, saucy goodness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds heartiness to the dish. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. Both work well and keep the flavors light.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini brings a creamy, soft texture. You can swap with spinach or meat-filled tortellini for variety, or even use ravioli if you like.
Enchilada Sauce: This is where the dish gets its signature Mexican flavor. If you don’t have enchilada sauce, salsa roja or a blend of tomato sauce and chili powder works fine.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt well and add richness. You can use just one kind or substitute mozzarella for a milder taste.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika bring classic southwestern flavors. Adjust amounts to your heat preference. If you want less heat, reduce the chili powder.
How Do I Cook the Beef and Tortellini Perfectly Together?
Getting both the beef and tortellini just right is key for this one-pan wonder. Here’s how I do it:
- Cook the onions and garlic first until soft, so they add flavor but don’t burn.
- Brown the beef well, breaking it up so it cooks evenly and mixes nicely with the spices.
- While the beef cooks, boil the tortellini separately. This stops the pasta from getting too soft in the sauce later.
- Drain the tortellini and add it to the cooked beef and sauce, stirring gently so the pasta doesn’t tear.
- Top with cheese and cover to melt—low heat avoids burning and keeps everything gooey.
These steps keep the beef flavorful and tender, and the tortellini soft but not mushy. It makes all the difference when enjoying this cozy dish!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the beef and sauce all in one pan, making cleanup easy.
- Medium pot – to boil the tortellini separately without overcooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for breaking up the beef and stirring ingredients without scratching your pan.
- Colander – to drain the cooked tortellini quickly and easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner meal.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and a little sweetness.
- Mix in diced green chilies or jalapeños if you like more heat and a fresh kick.
- Top with crumbled queso fresco or add pepper jack cheese for a creamier, spicier finish.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini (or fresh)
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
Cheese & Seasonings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Sliced green onions (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Plan for about 25 minutes total. That includes 10 minutes to prep and cook the beef and onions, 4 minutes to boil the tortellini, and another 5-6 minutes to simmer everything together and melt the cheese. It’s a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Then add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the spices coat the beef evenly.
2. Boil the Tortellini
While the beef cooks, bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set aside.
3. Combine with Enchilada Sauce and Cheese
Pour the enchilada sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer with the beef for about 2-3 minutes to blend flavors. Then gently fold in the drained tortellini, making sure each piece is coated well in the sauce. Sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses on top. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to low, and allow the cheese to melt for 3-5 minutes.
4. Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon a dollop of sour cream in the center of the dish and sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley and sliced green onions on top. Serve immediately, optionally alongside extra sour cream or a fresh side like guacamole or salad.
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the frozen tortellini before cooking, or cook it directly a minute or two longer than the recommended time to ensure it’s fully heated through.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier or Milder?
Adjust the chili powder to taste—add more for extra heat or reduce it to keep things mild. You can also add diced jalapeños or omit spices for a less spicy version.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cook the beef mixture and boil the tortellini separately, then combine and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or sauce to keep it moist before adding cheese to melt.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
