Description

A rich, creamy fusion of cheesy beef enchiladas and tender cheese-filled tortellini, this quick dinner idea delivers comfort in every bite. Packed with bold enchilada flavor, melty cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, and a tangy sour cream finish, it’s a one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or when you just need a hearty, satisfying dinner. Great for those searching for easy dinner recipes, weeknight comfort food ideas, and cheesy pasta dishes.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)

20 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

2 cups red enchilada sauce (mild, medium, or hot)

1 cup sour cream (plus extra for garnish)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 small onion finely diced

2 cloves garlic minced

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp chili powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until fully browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.

3. Season the beef with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, letting the spices bloom for 1 minute.

4. Pour in the enchilada sauce and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir well so the beef is fully coated.

5. Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet. If using fresh, simmer for about 5–6 minutes; if frozen, allow 8–9 minutes, stirring occasionally so they cook evenly.

6. Lower the heat and stir in sour cream, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

7. Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.

Notes

Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Add diced jalapeños or cayenne for extra heat.

For a saucier dish, add an extra ½ cup enchilada sauce before simmering tortellini.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Fusion – Mexican & Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 540
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 960 mg
Fat: 26 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 27 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg

Keywords: cheesy beef enchilada tortellini, easy dinner, pasta fusion, comfort food, one-pan meal