Description

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal combining seasoned ground beef, tender cheese tortellini, and rich enchilada sauce. Cream cheese adds a silky texture while melted mozzarella on top creates a gooey, golden finish. This Mexican-inspired comfort dish comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Cheese

1 lb ground beef
½ cup cream cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Pasta

1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini

Vegetables and Aromatics

½ medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Sauce

1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Cook until the beef is fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, then drain any excess fat.
Add Enchilada Sauce: Pour in the red enchilada sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer to combine flavors.
Melt Cream Cheese: Add the cream cheese in chunks to the skillet and stir continuously until it is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
Cook Tortellini: Gently fold in the cheese tortellini. Continue cooking over medium-low heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender and heated through.
Melt Mozzarella: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts. Optionally, broil briefly to get the cheese bubbly and slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the dish hot and enjoy your cheesy, comforting meal.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the chili powder.
If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
You can use frozen tortellini; just increase the cooking time slightly and ensure it’s fully heated through.
Covering the skillet helps melt the mozzarella faster without drying out the dish.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican-American

Keywords: enchilada, beef, cheese tortellini, Mexican-inspired, skillet meal, easy dinner, comfort food