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This cheesy beef enchilada tortellini skillet is my quick fix for weeknight dinners when I want comforting and flavorful all in one pan. It combines familiar Tex-Mex tastes with tender pasta in a way that feels both indulgent and easy to pull off after a busy day.
I put this together on a hectic evening when I needed something filling but fast. It quickly became a favorite that everybody asks for again and again.
Ingredients
- Tortellini: gives the dish a rich, chewy texture so choose fresh or good quality frozen for best results
- Ground beef: adds hearty protein, pick leaner cuts if you want to reduce grease but not too lean or it gets dry
- Taco seasoning: brings in classic southwestern spice and you can customize the heat by picking mild or spicy blends
- Enchilada sauce: forms the tangy base that ties everything together, taste-test brands to find one with a depth of flavor and not too salty
- Black beans: add fiber and creaminess, rinse canned to avoid any metallic taste from the can
- Corn: adds a touch of sweetness and a bit of pop, fresh or frozen both work well depending on the season
- Cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and delivers sharpness, Monterey jack or a mix can soften the flavor if preferred
- Sour cream: brightens the dish at the end lending a cool, creamy contrast
- Green onions and cilantro: bring fresh herbal notes, use them generously for freshness
Instructions
- Build The Base:
- Cook tortellini according to the package directions. This ensures the pasta is tender and ready to soak up the sauce. Drain and set aside.
- Cook The Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef thoroughly breaking it apart with a spatula until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming greasy but leave enough fat for flavor.
- Add Seasoning and Sauce:
- Sprinkle in taco seasoning and stir to coat the beef evenly. Pour in the water or beef broth and enchilada sauce to create a flavorful simmering liquid.
- Combine Main Ingredients:
- Add the drained tortellini, black beans, and corn to the beef mixture. Stir gently so everything is mixed but the pasta remains intact. Allow to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors meld and the liquid slightly reduces.
- Top With Cheese and Broil:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the skillet. Place under a hot broiler for 2 to 3 minutes watching carefully until the cheese bubbles and browns slightly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven. Dollop sour cream on top and scatter sliced green onions and chopped cilantro to add fresh brightness right before serving.
I love the way the melted cheese crisps just a tiny bit under the broiler — it adds texture and richness. My family always remembers this dish from when I first made it on a rushed evening and it turned into an instant favorite.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce without drying out the pasta.
Ingredient Swaps
Try ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter protein. Swap black beans for pinto or kidney beans for variation. Use jarred salsa instead of enchilada sauce for a fresher, less concentrated flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness. A side of tortilla chips or warm corn tortillas works great for scooping.
This skillet is a perfect blend of comforting and quick, bringing a Tex-Mex twist that satisfies every time.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can gluten-free tortellini be used?
Yes, gluten-free tortellini works well here and ensures the dish suits gluten-sensitive diets without compromising texture.
- → What type of cheese melts best for topping?
Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheeses melt smoothly and add a creamy, sharp flavor that complements the spices.
- → Can beef broth replace water in the sauce?
Absolutely. Using beef broth enriches the sauce with deeper savory notes enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Yes, diced bell peppers or zucchini can be added for extra color and nutrition without overwhelming the original flavors.
- → How long should the cheese be broiled?
Broil the cheese for 2-3 minutes or until melted and slightly golden to achieve a perfect, bubbly topping.
- → What fresh herbs work well as garnishes?
Cilantro and sliced green onions provide bright, fresh accents that balance richness and add a fragrant finish.