Introduction

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a deliciously comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of enchilada sauce with tender cheese-filled tortellini and savory ground beef. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something warm, cheesy, and satisfying.

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe - Recipe Image

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

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; cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the enchilada sauce and cream cheese, stirring until smooth. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 2: While the beef mixture simmers, cook the tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain well but do not rinse.
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.
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, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Step 5: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a spicy twist.
To make it vegetarian, swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms and black beans.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, frozen tortellini can be used. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package and adjust the cooking time if needed to achieve al dente texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 136 reviews

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a comforting fusion casserole combining Italian cheese tortellini with flavorful Mexican-inspired enchilada beef sauce. Ground beef is cooked with aromatic spices and enchilada sauce, mixed with creamy cheese tortellini, and baked with gooey mozzarella for a rich, hearty meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Author: Lena
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican-Italian Fusion

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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

Spices and Seasonings

1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare Beef Filling: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, cooking for about one minute until fragrant. Next, add the red enchilada sauce and cream cheese, stirring continuously until smooth. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
Cook Tortellini: While the beef mixture simmers, cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked tortellini well but do not rinse, to retain some starch which helps the sauce adhere better.
Combine and Assemble: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients evenly. Then transfer this mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes to set. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired, for a burst of fresh flavor.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.
For extra creaminess, sprinkle additional cream cheese on top before baking.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Keywords: Beef Enchilada, Tortellini Casserole, Cheesy Beef Bake, Easy Dinner Recipe, Mexican Italian Fusion, Ground Beef Recipes