Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini recipe is a wonderful fusion of two classic comfort foods: cheesy beef enchiladas and cheesy pasta. The dish is incredibly flavorful with the taco seasoning and enchilada sauce infusing the beef and tortellini with rich spices. Topped with shredded cheddar cheese, it’s an indulgent and satisfying meal that is as delicious as it is easy to prepare. If you love a cheesy, hearty dish with a hint of spice, this is the recipe for you!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup enchilada sauce
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Add the Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cook the Tortellini: While the beef mixture is simmering, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Assemble the Dish: In a large casserole dish, layer the cooked tortellini, beef mixture, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Top with sour cream and fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Total time: 35-40 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and use more beans or add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to make a veggie-packed version.
Spicy Version: Add a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture or use a spicy enchilada sauce to turn up the heat.
Different Cheese: Swap out the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses for a different flavor.
Tortellini Varieties: You can use any variety of cheese tortellini or even spinach tortellini for a bit of extra flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just cook them according to the package instructions, and they’ll work perfectly in this recipe.

Is this dish spicy?

The heat level depends on the enchilada sauce and taco seasoning you use. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for a mild enchilada sauce or use less taco seasoning. For more heat, choose a spicy enchilada sauce and add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling it in advance and refrigerating it before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it according to the directions, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! You can add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

What kind of enchilada sauce should I use?

You can use red or green enchilada sauce, depending on your preference. Red enchilada sauce will give it a more traditional flavor, while green enchilada sauce offers a slightly tangy and herby taste.

Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?

Yes! If you prefer a homemade sauce, you can use your favorite recipe. Homemade enchilada sauce will add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Of course! While cheddar cheese gives this dish a nice sharp flavor, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different taste.

How do I make the dish creamier?

For an extra creamy dish, you can add a bit of cream cheese to the beef mixture or stir in a little heavy cream when adding the enchilada sauce.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini is a comforting and creative dish that combines the best of both worlds: Mexican flavors and cheesy pasta. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something indulgent and flavorful. The balance of the seasoned beef, cheesy tortellini, and rich enchilada sauce makes for a meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of beef enchiladas or cheesy pasta, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!