Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini has become my absolute go-to for a weeknight meal that feels special enough for company. I remember the first time I tried to recreate my mom’s famous enchiladas with a pasta twist; it was a bit of a happy accident that led to this incredible Cheesy Tortellini Enchilada Bake. The aroma of seasoned beef and warm spices filling the kitchen always makes me feel so cozy. This dish is truly an Easy Cheesy Beef Tortellini that’s guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
- Unbeatable flavor: A delicious fusion of savory beef enchiladas and creamy tortellini that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Quick prep time: With only 15 minutes of prep, this makes weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Family-friendly appeal: This crowd-pleasing dish is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
- Budget-friendly: Uses common pantry staples and affordable ground beef for a meal that won’t break the bank.
- Versatile as a Beef Enchilada Pasta Bake: Easily adaptable to your spice preference and available ingredients.
- Comfort food at its finest: It’s the perfect hearty and warming meal for any occasion.
- A delightful twist on pasta: Experience the joy of a Beef Enchilada Pasta Bake that’s anything but boring.
Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Gathering your Cheesy Beef Tortellini Casserole Ingredients is the first step to this amazing dish. You’ll need a few key components to bring together this Tex-Mex pasta delight. The star ingredients are the 1 pound ground beef, which provides a hearty base, and the 1 (18 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini, offering that signature creamy texture. We also use 1 (15 ounce) can red enchilada sauce for that authentic enchilada flavor and 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese to make it extra gooey. Don’t forget the aromatics like 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and 3 cloves garlic, minced, which build the foundation of flavor. For creaminess, we add 1 cup sour cream.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Get ready to whip up this incredible pasta bake with these simple steps. It’s truly one of the easiest Beef Tortellini Enchilada Casserole Instructions you’ll follow!
- Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, get a large skillet or Dutch oven ready over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Step 2: Toss in the 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and sauté it until it becomes beautifully softened and translucent, usually about 5 minutes. You’ll start to smell that sweet onion aroma filling your kitchen.
- Step 3: Add the 1 pound ground beef to the skillet. Cook it, breaking it apart with your spoon, until it’s nicely browned. Be sure to drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Step 4: Stir in the 3 cloves garlic, minced, and let it cook for just about 1 minute until it’s wonderfully fragrant. This step really wakes up the flavors.
- Step 5: Pour in the 1 (15 ounce) can red enchilada sauce. Stir everything together to coat the beef and onions.
- Step 6: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the 1 cup sour cream until it’s completely combined and the sauce turns a creamy, dreamy texture.
- Step 7: Now for the star! Add the 1 (18 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini to the skillet. Gently stir them in, making sure each little pasta pocket is coated in that rich, savory sauce.
- Step 8: Cover the skillet tightly and let it cook for 10-15 minutes. You’re waiting for the tortellini to become perfectly tender and heated all the way through. Give it a stir now and then.
- Step 9: Uncover the skillet and stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and wonderfully gooey, creating that signature cheesy pull.
- Step 10: Finally, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. These Beef Tortellini Enchilada Casserole Instructions finish with serving it up hot, perhaps with some fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Beef Tortellini
I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Follow these and you’ll have a winner every time!
- Don’t overcook the tortellini in the sauce; they should be al dente when you add them, as they’ll continue to cook.
- For an extra cheesy kick, consider adding a cup of Monterey Jack cheese along with the cheddar.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, use a medium or hot enchilada sauce, or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Beef Tortellini?
The key is the creamy sauce base made with sour cream and enchilada sauce, which coats the tortellini beautifully. It creates a wonderfully moist and flavorful Cheesy Ground Beef Tortellini Bake that’s incredibly comforting. For more tips on creating creamy sauces, check out this guide on making creamy sauces.
Can I make Cheesy Beef Tortellini ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! Assemble the entire casserole (up to adding the final cup of cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when baking from cold.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Beef Tortellini?
A common pitfall is overcooking the tortellini, making them mushy. Also, make sure not to overmix the beef and sauce; gentle stirring preserves the texture. Lastly, ensure your enchilada sauce is flavorful, as it’s a primary flavor driver. Understanding the role of spices in cooking can help improve flavor profiles.
Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Beef Tortellini
This hearty dish is practically a meal in itself, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to round out the meal. For a classic Tex-Mex experience, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a lime vinaigrette, or some warm, crusty bread for soaking up any extra sauce. A simple side of steamed corn or black beans also complements the rich flavors wonderfully. If you’re looking for a complete meal plan, this is a fantastic base for a Cheesy Tortellini Casserole Recipe that can be elevated with these easy additions. You might also enjoy these summer corn salad ideas.
Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
This delicious dish is packed with flavor, and here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving. This Cheesy Beef Tortellini Casserole Dinner Idea is a satisfying meal.
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Beef Tortellini
This Cheesy Beef Tortellini Casserole Dinner Idea is so good, you’ll definitely want leftovers! Once it’s cooked, let the casserole cool down completely on the counter for about 20-30 minutes. This is important to prevent excess moisture buildup in your storage containers. For the best results, transfer the cooled pasta bake into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil or in a freezer-safe container.
To reheat, you have a couple of great options. For individual portions, a quick zap in the microwave works wonders, usually about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If you’re reheating a larger amount, placing it back in an oven-safe dish and warming it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil, will bring it back to its original glory. You might want to add a splash of milk or water if it seems a little dry after storage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
What is Cheesy Beef Tortellini?
What is Cheesy Beef Tortellini? It’s a wonderfully comforting casserole that marries the rich, savory flavors of beef enchiladas with the delightful texture of cheese tortellini. Think tender pasta pockets bathed in a creamy, spiced sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s a Tex-Mex pasta bake that’s incredibly satisfying and easy to make for any night of the week. For more Tex-Mex inspired dishes, explore our Greek Chili Chicken Alfredo.
Can I use different types of cheese in this Cheesy Tortellini Enchilada Bake?
Absolutely! While cheddar is fantastic, feel free to experiment. A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar is a classic for a reason, giving you both meltiness and flavor. You could also try pepper jack for a little kick, or even a bit of Colby Jack. The key is to use a cheese that melts well for that perfect gooey finish on your Enchilada Tortellini Casserole with Beef.
What if I don’t have refrigerated tortellini?
No worries if you can’t find refrigerated cheese tortellini! You can use frozen cheese tortellini, but be sure to cook them according to package directions first, as they won’t cook through adequately in the sauce. Alternatively, any small pasta shape like ditalini or even mini ravioli would work well in this Cheesy Tortellini Bake with Ground Beef.
Is this dish spicy? How can I adjust the heat?
The heat level largely depends on the enchilada sauce you choose. Using a mild sauce will make this a very family-friendly dish. If you enjoy a bit more spice, opt for a medium or hot enchilada sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick in your Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Casserole.
Variations of Cheesy Beef Tortellini You Can Try
This amazing dish is so versatile, and I love playing around with different flavors and methods. Here are a few of my favorite ways to switch things up!
- Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Pasta: For those who like a little heat, swap the mild enchilada sauce for a medium or hot version. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture while it’s cooking.
- Chicken Tortellini Enchilada Bake: Ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully as a substitute for ground beef. It’s a lighter option but still packed with flavor.
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the beef altogether and sauté some extra veggies like bell peppers, corn, and black beans with the onions and garlic. It makes a fantastic meatless meal.
- Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini Casserole: Brown the beef and onions first, then combine everything except the final cup of cheese in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir in the cheese during the last 15 minutes.
For more quick and easy dinner ideas, check out our latest recipes. If you’re looking for something sweet, try these blueberry blondies.
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Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini: 15 Min Prep
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful dish that combines the richness of beef enchiladas with the delightful texture of cheesy tortellini. This easy casserole is a family-friendly meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (18 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the red enchilada sauce and stir to combine with the beef mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir in the sour cream until well combined and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the tortellini with the sauce.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and heated through, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Adjust the spice level by using mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce.
- If you don’t have cheese tortellini, you can use mini ravioli or other small pasta shapes.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
