Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

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Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is one of those meals that turns a regular weeknight into something unforgettable. Imagine the heartiness of beef enchiladas blended with the comfort of cheesy tortellini — all in one skillet. It’s a fusion that makes your fork go back for more before you even realize it.

Perfect for busy evenings or lazy weekends, this dish delivers restaurant-style flavor with minimal effort. Savory browned beef, tender tortellini, and a luscious creamy enchilada sauce come together with melted cheese and a punch of seasoning. It’s bold, rich, and totally satisfying.

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What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini works best here for its pillowy texture and quick cook time. You can find it in the deli or refrigerated pasta section of most grocery stores. If you’re using frozen tortellini, no worries—just give it a few extra minutes to cook.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Ground Beef: The flavorful base of the dish. Use lean ground beef to keep things from getting greasy.

Cheese Tortellini: This pasta brings creamy, cheesy pockets that soak up the sauce deliciously.

Cream Cheese: It melts into the sauce for an ultra-creamy texture.

Red Enchilada Sauce: Bold, zesty, and smoky—it’s the flavor foundation.

Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack adds gooey, melty goodness.

Spinach (optional): Adds color, nutrients, and a little extra texture.

Seasonings: Think chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin for a warm, spicy kick.

Heavy Cream or Milk: Helps loosen and enrich the sauce.

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How To Make the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Break it apart with your spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Sprinkle in your chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to coat the beef evenly with those warm spices.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Enchilada Base

Lower the heat and stir in the red enchilada sauce and cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts and blends into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.

Step 4: Add the Tortellini

Gently fold in the cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen). Stir to coat the pasta well with the sauce. Cover and let it simmer for about 6–8 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender.

Step 5: Toss in the Spinach (Optional)

If you’re adding spinach, stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking until it wilts into the sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack combo works great) over the top. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for 2–3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve It Hot

Give everything a final stir and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, beefy goodness!

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How to Serve and Store Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

This dish is hearty enough to shine all on its own, but if you want to add a side, a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread makes a perfect pairing. The richness of the tortellini and beef sauce benefits from something fresh and crunchy on the side.

Leftovers? You’re in luck. This dish keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to keep the sauce smooth and luscious.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese works best for the topping?

A mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds a nice contrast of sharp and creamy flavors.

Can I use a different meat?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works just as well. You could even use chorizo for a spicier twist.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Yes! Skip the beef and load up on beans, corn, and bell peppers for a hearty meatless option.

Can I make this ahead?

Totally. Prep the dish, stop before adding the final shredded cheese, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat and melt the cheese on top.

How do I prevent the tortellini from getting mushy?

Avoid overcooking. Once the tortellini is just tender, turn off the heat. If you’re reheating, do so gently and briefly.

Can I freeze it?

This dish is best fresh, but it can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with a Tex-Mex Twist?

If this Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini hit the spot, check out these other crave-worthy pasta dishes packed with flavor:

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
• Red Pepper Rigatoni: A Creamy Bold Pasta Delight
• Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

These recipes bring bold sauces, cozy cheese, and comforting carbs together in the best way.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you swap in a different meat or go all veggie? Did you make it spicy or keep it creamy?

I love seeing your creations and how you make these meals your own. Got questions? Ask away below—let’s help each other out in the kitchen!

Find more weeknight winners and bold cheesy flavors on my Pinterest: Life with Jam

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