Oh, let me tell you about this Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Bake Recipe—it’s like a fiesta of comfort food rolled into one irresistible dish! Combining the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef with tender cheese-filled tortellini and smothered in zesty enchilada sauce and gooey cheddar, this bake is pure magic. It’s a wonderfully satisfying meal that’s both hearty and cheesy, perfect for family dinners or impressing friends without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together in such a simple yet essential way to create layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish truly special. Every component plays a key role, from the savory beef to the creamy cheese and the bright pop of cilantro.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Provides a rich, savory base packed with hearty flavor and texture.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed, balancing out the spices.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic kick that wakes up the palate.
- Black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Adds protein and a creamy texture for extra substance.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 10 oz): Brings tanginess and a gentle heat for perfect enchilada flavor.
- Taco seasoning (1 tablespoon): A blend of spices that ties the beef and vegetables together with a Mexican flair.
- Cheese tortellini (9 oz package): The star noodle providing creamy, cheesy pockets of joy throughout the bake.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully on top for that irresistible golden crust.
- Enchilada sauce (1 cup): Imparts that vibrant, spicy tomato goodness that coats everything perfectly.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and cools down the spices just enough.
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped, optional): Offers a wonderful fresh contrast as a garnish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and highlighting all the flavors.
- Olive oil: Needed for sautéing the onions and garlic, enhancing flavor and texture.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Bake Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating about one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn translucent and soft. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its fragrant aroma. This base is the start of lots of flavor!
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Now add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to break it up as it cooks for even browning. If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep the dish from feeling greasy.
Step 3: Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Taco Seasoning
Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Let the mixture simmer gently for five minutes so all those flavors marry beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this is where your personal touch shines!
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions, typically 3 to 5 minutes until they float to the surface. Drain them well and set aside for the next step.
Step 5: Combine Tortellini and Beef Mixture
In a large bowl, gently fold the cooked tortellini with the savory beef mixture. You want everything evenly coated but be careful not to mash the tortellini. This combination is where the magic starts to come together.
Step 6: Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish—this prevents sticking and adds extra flavor. Then, spread your tortellini and beef mixture evenly in the dish.
Step 7: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, letting it cascade down and seep into every nook and cranny. Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top to create that luscious, melty layer we all love.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the bake cool for about 5 minutes before serving—this helps everything set perfectly.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Bake Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh, bright finish, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top just before serving. A dollop of sour cream adds creamy contrast and cools down the spices beautifully. If you love a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, Mexican rice, or a serving of guacamole and tortilla chips. These help balance the richness of the bake and make your meal feel complete without complicating things.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a fun, party-style presentation, or transform leftovers into stuffed peppers for a new twist. Wrapping the bake inside warm tortillas to make enchilada burritos is another delicious and playful idea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making for even tastier meals the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, but oven reheating will keep the cheese melty and delicious without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini works beautifully here, you can experiment with spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini for a twist, but keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for more beans, sautéed mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute to keep all the flavor and texture without the meat.
How spicy is this bake?
The heat level is mild to moderate because of the diced tomatoes with green chilies and taco seasoning. You can always add more chili or jalapeños if you like it hotter.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the bake the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready, just bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if coming straight from the fridge.
What’s the best way to prevent the bake from becoming soggy?
Drain your tortellini well and avoid using too much liquid enchilada sauce. Also, baking uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes helps evaporate excess moisture and crisps up the cheese on top.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Bake Recipe is an absolute winner for anyone craving warm, cheesy, and soul-satisfying food without endless fuss. Once you try it, I guarantee it will become one of your go-to dinners to share with family and friends. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this cheesy, beefy delight—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Description
Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini is a delicious fusion dish combining the rich flavors of traditional beef enchiladas with cheesy tortellini pasta. This hearty casserole layers seasoned ground beef, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and tender cheese tortellini, all baked under a blanket of savory enchilada sauce and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare with ingredients that create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Beef Filling
- 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Pasta
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
Assembly & Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: 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, which will form the aromatic base of the filling.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant but not browned to enhance the flavor.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the filling lean.
- Simmer Filling: Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook Tortellini: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until the tortellini float to the surface indicating they are done.
- Drain Tortellini: Drain the tortellini well and set aside, ready to be combined with the beef filling.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the enchilada-style casserole.
- Combine Tortellini and Beef Filling: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the cooked tortellini into the beef and bean mixture, ensuring an even distribution without breaking the pasta.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the tortellini and beef mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly across the base.
- Add Sauce: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the tortellini mixture to keep it moist and flavorful while baking.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the enchilada sauce layer for a rich, cheesy topping.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cheese to melt.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream as desired.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add chopped jalapeños or extra green chilies to the filling.
- Use low-fat cheddar cheese or reduced-fat sour cream for a lighter version.
- This dish can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving for convenience.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Ensure to drain excess fat from the ground beef to reduce greasiness in the casserole.
