When I think about quick and delicious weeknight meals, this Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Skillet always comes to mind. It’s one of those dishes that brings back memories of bustling weeknight dinners at my family home. My mom would whip this up in no time, all while juggling homework help and catching up on our day. There’s something undeniably comforting about the cheesy, spicy, and hearty combination of flavors. It’s like a little fiesta in a skillet!
The magic starts with tortellini, those delightful little pasta pockets that my kids absolutely love. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was a chaotic Tuesday evening, and everyone was starving. I needed something quick, filling, and packed with flavor. I rummaged through the pantry and gathered the essentials: ground beef, enchilada sauce, and black beans. In no time, the kitchen was filled with the mouth-watering aroma of seasoned beef and bubbling cheese. My youngest said it smelled like a fiesta in the house, and I couldn’t agree more.
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Don’t have enchilada sauce? Salsa works perfectly. Want to make it vegetarian? Just leave out the beef and double up on the beans and corn. It’s these little tweaks that make this dish a staple in our home. Not to mention, the leftovers are a lifesaver for next-day lunches. I often find myself snacking on a cold spoonful straight from the fridge—it’s just that good.
I invite you to dive into this dish and embrace the simplicity and warmth it brings. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, it’s sure to bring smiles and full bellies. So grab your skillet, gather the ingredients, and let’s get cooking. You might just find yourself adding this to your regular rotation, just like I did.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Skillet
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Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces tortellini (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup water (or beef broth)
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (or salsa)
- 1 (15-ounce can) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (or Monterey jack, shredded)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Be sure to drain any excess fat.
- Mix in the taco seasoning, followed by the water and enchilada sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Add the cooked tortellini, black beans, and corn to the skillet. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream and garnish with green onions and cilantro if desired. Enjoy your cheesy creation!
Easy Substitutes for Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Skillet
If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand, don’t worry! You can swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. No enchilada sauce? Salsa works just as well to bring that tangy kick. Feel free to switch up the cheese to a pepper jack for extra heat. Get creative with what’s in your kitchen!
Best Ways to Store Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Skillet Leftovers
To store leftovers, transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If you plan to enjoy it later in the week, consider freezing it. Portion the skillet into single servings, freeze, and simply reheat in the microwave when ready to enjoy.
Perfect Pairings for Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Skillet
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of fresh guacamole or a simple green salad with lime vinaigrette. For drinks, a refreshing margarita or a cold beer complements the spicy flavors perfectly. Consider serving with tortilla chips on the side for a crunchy contrast.
Secrets to Perfecting Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Skillet
Keep an eye on the cheese under the broiler to prevent it from burning. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the dish simmer a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. For added texture, try roasting the corn for a slightly smoky flavor before adding it to the skillet.
Seasonal Twists for Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Skillet
Adapt this versatile recipe with seasonal ingredients. In the summer, add diced zucchini or bell peppers for a fresh twist. As fall approaches, consider incorporating roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a comforting, autumnal vibe. Seasonal produce can truly elevate this dish.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While tortellini adds a unique texture and flavor, you can substitute it with other pasta types like penne or rigatoni. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so follow the package instructions for the best result.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground beef. You can increase the amount of black beans and corn or add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to maintain the hearty texture and delicious taste.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Indeed! You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Cook the beef and tortellini, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat everything with the enchilada sauce and finish with cheese.
What can I use instead of taco seasoning?
If you’re out of taco seasoning, you can create a quick homemade version using common spices. Mix together a teaspoon each of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Adjust the quantities to your taste to add a personal touch to your dish.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level can be easily adjusted according to your preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for a mild enchilada sauce and reduce the taco seasoning. For those who love heat, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For best results, reheat the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to evenly distribute the heat. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini Skillet
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces tortellini gluten-free if needed
- 1 cup water or beef broth
- 2 cups enchilada sauce or salsa
- 1 15 ounce can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn fresh or frozen
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup cheddar cheese or Monterey jack, shredded
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 pieces green onions sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cilantro chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the tortellini by cooking it according to the instructions on the package.
- In the meantime, warm a large skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef, ensuring any excess fat is drained.
- Add the taco seasoning to the beef, then pour in the water and enchilada sauce.
- Incorporate the cooked tortellini, black beans, and corn into the skillet and allow the mixture to simmer gently.
- Top everything with shredded cheese and place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream, garnished with green onions and cilantro if desired.
