One-Pot Cheesy Enchilada Tortellini with Beef

Why Make This Recipe

One-Pot Cheesy Enchilada Tortellini with Beef is a delicious and simple meal. It combines the comforting flavors of enchiladas with tender tortellini, all cooked in one pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights since it requires minimal cleanup and is packed with flavor. The combination of beef, spices, and cheese creates a satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy.

How to Make One-Pot Cheesy Enchilada Tortellini with Beef

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can red enchilada sauce (10 oz)
• 1 bag cheese tortellini (20 oz bag fresh or frozen)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar-jack cheese blend
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes (14 oz), undrained
• Fresh chopped cilantro for topping

Directions:

1. In a large deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned and crumbled.
3. Stir in the diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until it becomes softened.
4. Season the beef with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add in the fresh garlic and cook for another minute until it is fragrant.
6. Pour in the beef broth, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and enchilada sauce. Stir until everything is well combined.
7. Add the cheese tortellini directly into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for about 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini are tender and fully cooked.
8. Uncover and stir in the shredded cheddar-jack cheese until it is melted and creamy.
9. Turn off the heat and mix in the sour cream to make the sauce extra velvety.
10. Top with fresh, finely chopped cilantro before serving.

How to Serve One-Pot Cheesy Enchilada Tortellini with Beef

Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. It pairs well with a side salad or some warm bread. You can also offer extra toppings like diced avocado or jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

How to Store One-Pot Cheesy Enchilada Tortellini with Beef

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot. You may need to add a splash of beef broth to keep it creamy.

Tips to Make One-Pot Cheesy Enchilada Tortellini with Beef

• For a slightly spicier version, add some diced jalapeños when cooking the onion.
• You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• If you have it on hand, adding a squeeze of lime juice right before serving can brighten the flavors.

Variation

You can easily switch the cheese tortellini for another type of pasta, like penne or rotini, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Experiment with adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or corn for added nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.

2. What can I use instead of beef?
You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian dish.

3. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The cheesy and mild flavors make it appealing to kids. You can adjust the spices according to your family’s taste.