Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini: A Delicious Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini: A Delicious Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Are you in the mood for a hearty meal that combines the comforting flavors of Mexican cuisine with the delightful texture of pasta? Look no further than Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini! This unique dish merges seasoned ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and tender cheese tortellini, all smothered in rich enchilada sauce. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or a casual family gathering.
Why Make This Recipe
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The rich flavors and creamy textures will satisfy both pasta lovers and those who crave Mexican-inspired dishes. With its easy preparation and comforting ingredients, it’s a surefire hit among kids and adults alike. Plus, you’ll have the chance to impress your family or guests with a splendid dish that feels indulgent yet doesn’t require hours in the kitchen!
How to Make Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini: A Step-by-Step Guide
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
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning, simmering for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Meanwhile, in a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook cheese tortellini according to package instructions, about 3-5 minutes.
- Drain the tortellini and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked tortellini with the beef mixture, coating well.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Carefully transfer the tortellini and beef mixture into the dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini
Serve your Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini hot from the oven, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with a side salad or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
How to Store Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy again.
Tips to Make Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini
- Use lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier option.
- Feel free to spice it up with additional chili powder or jalapeños if you like it hot!
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with mushrooms or additional beans.
Variations
- Swap out the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.
- You can use whole-wheat tortellini for a healthier twist.
- Add some veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, to the beef mixture for extra nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef filling and tortellini and assemble everything in the baking dish before refrigerating it. Just bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
2. What can I serve with Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, guacamole, chips, or even Mexican rice.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
With its combination of flavors, textures, and comfort, Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini is a dish that is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy!
Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz)
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 package cheese tortellini (9 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning, simmering for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Meanwhile, in a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook cheese tortellini according to package instructions, about 3-5 minutes.
- Drain the tortellini and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked tortellini with the beef mixture, coating well.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Carefully transfer the tortellini and beef mixture into the dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
