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One-Pot Cheesy Enchilada Tortellini with Beef – Cozy, Flavor-Packed Comfort Dinner for Busy Nights

One-Pot Cheesy Enchilada Tortellini with Beef is the ultimate cozy night dinner—rich, cheesy, boldly spiced, and unbelievably easy to make. This recipe brings together tender beef, soft tortellini, and classic enchilada flavors in one comforting skillet that feels indulgent without being complicated. What makes this dish a standout is the one-pot method. Everything cooks together, allowing the tortellini to soak up the savory enchilada-style sauce while the cheese melts into a creamy, irresistible finish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cold evenings, or anytime you want something warm and satisfying with minimal cleanup. If you love comfort food with bold flavor, this dish is about to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
Sauce & Pasta
  • 2 cups beef broth low sodium
  • 1½ cups enchilada-style sauce homemade or store-style, alcohol-free
  • 1 10 oz package cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
Seasoning
  • 1½ teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cheese & Finish
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish optional
  • These ingredients create a dish that’s cheesy saucy, hearty, and deeply comforting.

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Step 2:
  1. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Step 3:
  1. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4:
  1. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart, until browned and fully cooked.
Step 5:
  1. Season the beef with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat evenly.
Step 6:
  1. Pour in the beef broth and enchilada-style sauce. Stir to combine.
Step 7:
  1. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 8:
  1. Add the cheese tortellini directly into the skillet. Stir so the pasta is mostly submerged.
Step 9:
  1. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender and the sauce thickens.
Step 10:
  1. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Step 11:
  1. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
Step 12:
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 13:
  1. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 14:
  1. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Freezing:
Freeze in portions for up to 2 months
Reheating:
Reheat on the stovetop or microwave
Add a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much
🥄 Variations
Extra spicy: Add crushed chili flakes
Creamier: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese
Veggie boost: Add bell peppers or spinach
Protein swap: Use ground chicken or beef mince with lower fat
Baked finish: Transfer to a dish, top with cheese, and broil briefly
Each variation keeps the dish comforting, flexible, and satisfying.
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this very spicy?
No, it’s mild with warm spices.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, it’s family-friendly.
Do I need to pre-cook the tortellini?
No, it cooks directly in the sauce.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar and mozzarella melt beautifully.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it reheats very well.
Is this a heavy dish?
It’s rich but balanced.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pot.
Does it thicken as it sits?
Yes, slightly—add broth when reheating.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, adjust cook time slightly.
Is this good for meal prep?
Absolutely.
🏁 Conclusion
One-Pot Cheesy Enchilada Tortellini with Beef is everything you want from comfort food—warm, cheesy, bold, and incredibly easy. With just one pot and simple ingredients, you get a dinner that feels indulgent without the stress.
This is the kind of recipe that saves busy nights and satisfies everyone at the table.