Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini is a creative fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Combining the rich, savory flavors of beef, black beans, and enchilada sauce with cheesy, tender tortellini, this dish is a perfect blend of comfort food. The addition of cheddar cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro brings everything together into a creamy, satisfying casserole-like dish. Whether you’re craving pasta or Mexican food, this recipe delivers the best of both worlds in one hearty, cheesy meal.

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
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ 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

1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture: While the tortellini is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Add Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Tortellini: Add the cooked tortellini to the beef mixture, stirring gently to combine.
6. Layer with Cheese: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, pour half of the beef and tortellini mixture, spreading it evenly. Top with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese.
7. Bake: Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the layered tortellini and beef mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Finish with Sour Cream and Cilantro: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Drizzle sour cream over the top, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: For more vegetables, you can add bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the beef mixture. You can also swap the black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans.
• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a bit of chili powder to the beef mixture for an extra spicy kick.
• Different Cheeses: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can swap it out for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for extra creaminess.
• Meat-Free: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra beans.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the leftovers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?

Yes, you can substitute tortellini with any type of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef and tortellini mixture, layer it with cheese, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

3. Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spice depends on the diced tomatoes with green chilies and taco seasoning. If you prefer a milder dish, you can use mild diced tomatoes and reduce the taco seasoning. For more heat, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.

4. Can I use a different protein?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken,  if you prefer a different protein. For a vegetarian version, use a meat substitute like lentils or tofu.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! You can use dairy-free cheese and sour cream to make this dish dairy-free. Look for plant-based alternatives that melt well and have a creamy texture.

7. Can I add more cheese to the top?

Absolutely! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more cheese on top before baking for an extra cheesy finish.

8. How can I make this dish more flavorful?

To intensify the flavor, try adding extra spices like chili powder, cumin, or paprika. You can also stir in a little bit of salsa or extra enchilada sauce for more depth.

9. Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?

Yes, homemade enchilada sauce works wonderfully in this recipe. If you have your own preferred sauce, feel free to use it instead of store-bought.

10. How do I know when this dish is done?

The dish is done when the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly golden. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) if using a thermometer.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini is a fun and delicious twist on classic comfort food that brings together the best flavors of Mexican and Italian cuisine. With layers of cheesy tortellini, seasoned beef, and enchilada sauce, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing a meal for guests, this fusion dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and comforting texture!

Print