If you love the bold, smoky flavors of enchiladas and the cheesy, pillowy goodness of tortellini, this Cheesy Enchilada Beef Tortellini Skillet will be your new obsession. It’s a one-pan dinner that blends Mexican spice with Italian pasta flair, all topped off with a creamy, cheesy finish.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends, or simply want to spoil yourself with a hearty meal, this recipe delivers in under 40 minutes—without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients Breakdown & Why They Work
Protein & Pasta
1 pound ground beef – Brings rich, meaty flavor and heartiness. Use lean beef to avoid excess grease.
1 bag (20 oz) cheese tortellini – The Italian star of the dish. The cheese filling pairs beautifully with enchilada sauce and spices. Fresh or frozen both work.
Cheese & Cream
1½ cups shredded cheddar-jack cheese blend – Melts smoothly and adds a mild, creamy tang.
¼ cup sour cream – For extra richness and a subtle tang that balances the heat from the spices.
Sauces & Liquids
1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce – The Mexican flavor base; smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy.
1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds depth and a subtle sweetness with charred tomato flavor.
2 cups beef broth – Keeps the tortellini moist and infuses the dish with extra savory flavor.
Aromatics & Spices
1 small yellow onion, finely diced – Sweetens and deepens the savory flavor as it cooks.
2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic – Bright, pungent kick to elevate the overall taste.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Reinforces garlic flavor in the sauce.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a warm, smoky depth.
1 teaspoon cumin – Earthy, slightly nutty undertone.
1 teaspoon chili powder – A mild heat with a touch of complexity.
½ teaspoon oregano – Lends a herby balance to the spice mix.
1 teaspoon salt & ⅛ teaspoon black pepper – Essential for seasoning balance.
Fresh Garnish
Fresh chopped cilantro – Adds freshness and a pop of color for presentation.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high. Add the beef and break it apart with a spatula, cooking until it’s no longer pink. Browning builds flavor, so give it a few minutes without stirring to develop caramelization.
- Sauté the Onion
Add the finely diced onion and cook until soft and translucent—about 5 minutes. This step brings natural sweetness to balance the spices.
- Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle in garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the beef is coated in spice. Add minced fresh garlic last, cooking just 1 minute to avoid burning.
- Build the Sauce
Pour in beef broth, fire-roasted tomatoes (with their juices), and enchilada sauce. Stir and let the flavors mingle for 2–3 minutes.
- Cook the Tortellini
Add the cheese tortellini directly to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and cooked through.
- Make It Cheesy & Creamy
Uncover and stir in the shredded cheddar-jack cheese until melted and silky. Turn off the heat, then stir in the sour cream for a luscious finish.
- Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot straight from the skillet.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp side salad for freshness.
Serve with warm garlic bread or cornbread to soak up the sauce.
For extra heat, add jalapeño slices or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the dish up to the point before adding sour cream, store in the fridge, then reheat and stir in the sour cream before serving. - Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap the beef for black beans, plant-based crumbles, or sautéed mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. - What if I can’t find enchilada sauce?
You can substitute with a mix of tomato sauce, taco seasoning, and a bit of chili powder for a similar flavor. - Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, but cheese tortellini makes this dish extra indulgent. Ravioli works well, too. - Is this freezer-friendly?
Cooked tortellini can get soft after freezing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, undercook the pasta slightly before freezing to preserve texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~620 kcal
Protein: ~28g
Carbs: ~46g
Fat: ~34g
(Values are approximate and vary based on exact ingredients used.)
Final Thoughts
The Cheesy Enchilada Beef Tortellini Skillet is a true kitchen fusion masterpiece—Mexican zest meets Italian comfort in one skillet, with easy prep and minimal cleanup. This is the kind of dish that makes you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.