Introduction
Transform humble tortellini into a fiesta in your mouth with this ridiculously easy Beef Enchilada Tortellini bake! Busy weeknights just got a whole lot tastier. Forget complicated recipes; this one’s ready in under 30 minutes, delivering bold Mexican flavors without the fuss.
Why This Works
This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It cleverly combines the convenience of frozen tortellini with the vibrant taste of enchiladas. The result? A flavor explosion that’s ready faster than ordering takeout! Minimal prep, maximum flavor – that’s the magic here.
Key Ingredients
- 🧀 1 (25 ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 🥩 1 (15 ounce) can beef enchilada filling
- 🥫 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 🧅 ½ cup chopped onion
- 🌶️ 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 🧀 ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 🧀 ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, beef enchilada filling, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chopped onion, and chili powder. Mix gently until everything is combined.
3️⃣ Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4️⃣ Sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
5️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tortellini is heated through.
6️⃣ Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Handy Tips
- For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before baking.
- If you don’t have Rotel, you can use a can of diced tomatoes with a pinch of cumin and a dash of hot sauce.
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; a little bit of texture is a good thing!
Heat Control
The oven temperature of 375°F (190°C) is perfect for melting the cheese and heating the tortellini without drying out the filling. If your oven runs hot, keep a close eye on it and reduce the baking time if necessary.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on a creamy, cheesy texture, you can add a crunch element by topping with some crushed tortilla chips before baking.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use pre-cooked tortellini to shave off even more time.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it a complete meal by serving with a side of your favorite Mexican salad.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish is perfect for potlucks! Transport it in the 9×13 baking dish covered with foil, or transfer it to a disposable aluminum pan. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving for a pretty presentation.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Creamy Chipotle: Stir in a tablespoon of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy twist.
🌟 Black Bean Boost: Add one can (15 ounces) of drained and rinsed black beans for extra protein and fiber.
🌟 Green Chili Fiesta: Use more green chili peppers or add some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.
🌟 Monterey Melt: Substitute all the cheese with your favorite shredded Monterey Jack for a more unified cheesy flavor.
Troubleshooting
- Dry Tortellini: If the tortellini seems dry, add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to the mixture before baking.
- Burnt Cheese: If the cheese is browning too quickly, tent the dish with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Soggy Bottom: Make sure your baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking and sogginess.
FAQ
- Can I use different types of tortellini? Yes, you can experiment with different fillings, but cheese tortellini works best with this recipe.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until baking.
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What can I serve with this? A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette, Mexican rice, or some warm tortillas are all great options.
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Can I freeze this dish? It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but you can freeze the unbaked assembled dish for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
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Is this recipe adaptable for dietary restrictions? You can easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free tortellini. For vegetarian options, omit the beef enchilada filling and add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or corn.
Conclusion
This Beef Enchilada Tortellini bake is a true weeknight winner! It’s quick, easy, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations on RateMyRecipes.com! Enjoy!
30-Minute Mexican Beef Tortellini Bake: Weeknight Dinner Winner
A quick and delicious one-pan dish combining beef, cheese tortellini, and zesty Mexican flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups cheese tortellini, uncooked
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180u00b0C (350u00b0F).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and salsa. Cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- Add the uncooked cheese tortellini to the skillet and mix well. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of water.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and dollops of sour cream.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Tips
- For added flavor, consider topping with sliced jalapeu00f1os or avocado before serving.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.