Description
This Cheesy Beef Tortellini Enchilada Casserole combines tender cheese tortellini with savory ground beef and rich enchilada sauce, all baked under a blanket of melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, offering a fusion twist between Italian pasta and Mexican flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces cheese tortellini
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 16 ounces enchilada sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Tortellini: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef and cook it thoroughly, stirring occasionally until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a 9×13 inch oven-safe casserole dish, combine the cooked tortellini, browned ground beef, enchilada sauce, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix everything well so the tortellini and beef are evenly coated with enchilada sauce.
- Add Topping Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy a delicious, cheesy, flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can use frozen tortellini; just be sure to cook it according to package guidelines before assembling.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the enchilada sauce before mixing.
- For a lower fat version, choose reduced-fat mozzarella and lean ground turkey instead of beef.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
