This Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini recipe takes comfort food to the next level with a bold, delicious fusion of Tex-Mex flavor and Italian indulgence. I combined rich ground beef, tender cheese-stuffed tortellini, and zesty enchilada sauce, all smothered in melted cheese for a one-dish meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and downright irresistible. It’s perfect for those nights when I want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen.

Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish balances flavor and simplicity. Here’s why it’s a regular in my weeknight rotation:

One-pot convenience makes clean-up easy.
It’s a creative mash-up of Mexican and Italian favorites.
Fast and filling—ready in under 1 hour.
My whole family enjoys it, especially the kids.
It’s incredibly cheesy, creamy, and comforting.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
small onion, diced
garlic, minced
enchilada sauce
cheese tortellini
shredded cheddar cheese
shredded Monterey Jack cheese
ground cumin
chili powder
salt and pepper
fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking.
I brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, which takes about 5–7 minutes. Once done, I drain the fat to keep the dish light.
I add diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent—about 3–4 minutes.
Next, I stir in enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, letting it simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors come together.
While that’s simmering, I boil the cheese tortellini based on the package instructions, then drain it well.
In a mixing bowl, I combine the cooked tortellini with the beef and sauce mixture, folding gently to coat everything.
I layer half the mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, sprinkle with half the cheese, then repeat with the remaining tortellini and cheese.
I cover the dish with foil and bake it for 20 minutes. After removing the foil, I bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
After letting it cool for a few minutes, I garnish it with chopped cilantro and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

I like to add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicier version.
For a vegetarian twist, I use black beans instead of beef.
Sometimes I mix in other cheeses like pepper jack or crumbled feta for a flavor boost.
Adding fresh oregano or basil gives the dish a more herbaceous depth.
Gluten-free tortellini works well if I’m cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For reheating, I cover and microwave individual portions for about 1–2 minutes, or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.
It also freezes well—I let it cool completely, portion it into containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating from frozen, I thaw overnight in the fridge first.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. I just add 5–10 extra minutes of baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

I’ve made this with ground turkey, chicken, and even meat alternatives like lentils or black beans. They all work well depending on what I’m craving.

How can I make this dish spicier?

When I want more heat, I add jalapeños, a few dashes of hot sauce, or use a spicy enchilada sauce. I can always adjust it to suit my taste.

Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini?

Absolutely. I cool it completely, portion it out, and store it in freezer-safe containers. It holds up well for up to 3 months.

What sides pair well with this dish?

I usually serve it with a fresh salad or a side of tortilla chips and guacamole. A squeeze of lime on top also brightens it up nicely.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini is my go-to when I’m craving serious comfort food without a lot of hassle. It combines everything I love—melty cheese, bold spices, and hearty pasta—into one easy, satisfying meal. Whether I’m feeding the family or prepping for guests, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and let the magic happen in your kitchen.