Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini

Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini


  • Author: Eric
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A delicious fusion dish combining rich Mexican flavors and comforting Italian pasta, featuring a creamy, spicy enchilada-inspired ground beef mixture with plant-based cheese-filled tortellini, all baked in a smooth natural tomato sauce topped with melted plant-based cheese.


Ingredients

Scale

Beef Mixture

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon enchilada spices (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika blend)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Pasta

  • 12 oz tortellini pasta (plant-based cheese filled)

Enchilada Sauce

  • 2 cups tomato sauce (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Cheese and Garnishes

  • 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
  • Optional garnish: plant-based sour cream and chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Cook the Beef Mixture: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat. Stir in chopped onions and minced garlic and cook until soft and fragrant. Mix in enchilada spices, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer for a few minutes to combine flavors.
  2. Prepare the Tortellini: While the beef simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Make the Enchilada Sauce: In a separate saucepan, warm the tomato sauce with salt, garlic powder, and natural gelling agent. Stir continuously until sauce thickens to a silky, smooth consistency.
  4. Combine and Layer: Gently mix the cooked beef mixture with the hot tortellini and shredded plant-based cheese. Spread half of the enchilada sauce in a baking dish. Spoon the tortellini and beef mixture evenly over the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce on top and sprinkle extra plant-based cheese for a golden crust.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled dish for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and slightly browned. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh toasted spices to enhance enchilada flavor.
  • Slightly undercook tortellini to maintain texture after baking.
  • Layer sauce and filling evenly for balanced taste.
  • Choose a plant-based cheese that melts well for gooey texture.
  • Let the dish rest after baking to meld flavors and keep pasta firm.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Italian Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Tortellini, plant-based cheese, enchilada spices, creamy pasta bake, fusion recipe