Creamy, cheesy, and layered with bold Tex-Mex flavors, Beef Enchilada Tortellini is the weeknight dinner that never disappoints. Imagine juicy seasoned beef simmered in enchilada sauce, tossed with pillowy cheese tortellini, and smothered with melty cheese. It’s comfort food with a Mexican twist that’s both hearty and easy to make.

This dish blends the richness of Italian pasta with the spicy, savory profile of beef enchiladas. It’s a mashup that works surprisingly well, especially when you need something family-friendly and satisfying. If you love meals that come together quickly but taste like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, this one is a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Beef Enchilada Tortellini checks all the boxes for a perfect dinner. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly easy to prepare, and uses ingredients you likely already have. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for lunch the next day, this recipe is generous, filling, and irresistibly cheesy.

You’ll also appreciate that it’s a one-pan meal, meaning fewer dishes to clean. The tortellini cooks right in the sauce, soaking up every drop of spicy, meaty goodness. Top it with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, green onions, or a handful of crushed tortilla chips for an extra crunch.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini works best here because it cooks quickly and has a rich, creamy filling that complements the bold enchilada sauce. However, frozen tortellini is a good backup—just allow a few extra minutes for cooking. Avoid dried tortellini, which takes longer and won’t absorb the sauce as well.

Ingredients for the Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Name: Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce; 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 ounces cream cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

To build layers of flavor in this cozy dinner, you’ll want to use ingredients that balance spice, creaminess, and heartiness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef: The foundation of this dish, it brings rich, savory depth.

Yellow onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base.

Garlic: Essential for building bold flavor from the start.

Red enchilada sauce: The star of the show, bringing tangy heat and vibrant color.

Refrigerated cheese tortellini: Tender pasta filled with cheese to soak up all that saucy goodness.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the dish for that gooey, cheesy comfort.

Cream cheese: Adds luscious creaminess to balance the spice.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing and helps marry the flavors together.

Salt and pepper: To season each layer perfectly.

How To Make the Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic

Stir in the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Pour in the Sauce

Add the enchilada sauce and bring to a simmer. Let the flavors mingle for a few minutes before adding pasta.

Step 4: Add Tortellini

Stir in the cheese tortellini directly into the sauce. Cover and simmer gently for 6-7 minutes, until tortellini is tender.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. This step gives the sauce its luscious, velvety finish.

Step 6: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top and cover the pan just until the cheese melts into a gooey layer.

How to Serve and Store Beef Enchilada Tortellini

This dish is best served hot straight from the pan, with your favorite toppings like a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro. It feeds about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. For storing, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Beef Enchilada Tortellini?

Garlic Bread

A crusty side that’s perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

Mexican Street Corn

Adds a creamy, tangy contrast with sweet corn kernels.

Simple Green Salad

Fresh greens tossed in lime vinaigrette bring balance.

Cilantro Lime Rice

A citrusy side that ties into the Mexican flavors beautifully.

Sautéed Zucchini

Light and buttery, it offers a veggie boost.

Black Bean Salsa

Adds extra protein and a refreshing bite.

Tortilla Chips

For a fun crunch and perfect dipping partner.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Beef Enchilada Tortellini, you might enjoy these other creative pasta dinners:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can make it again and again.

I’d love to know how your version turned out! Did you spice it up more or keep it mild? Add some corn or beans? Let me know in the comments how you customized yours.

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Conclusion

Beef Enchilada Tortellini brings together the comfort of pasta and the bold flair of enchiladas into one irresistible skillet. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy nights when you need something easy but full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is one you’ll want to keep in your regular dinner rotation.