Cheesy Taco Tortellini Skillet

By Tyla | Last modified on Jan 11, 2026

Featured in: Dinner

Experience a fusion of comforting Italian pasta and bold Tex-Mex flavors with this Cheesy Taco Tortellini Skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan dish delivers a deliciously creamy, cheesy meal loaded with taco-seasoned ground beef and cheesy tortellini, making dinner both simple and satisfying.

The irresistible combination of spiced beef, savory enchilada sauce, and melted Colby Jack cheese creates a cozy dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Plus, minimal cleanup means you can savor every bite without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan meal combines taco flavors with cheesy pasta for a unique twist
Quick cook time makes it ideal for busy weeknight dinners
Customizable with your favorite toppings and sides to suit all tastes

Ingredients

Ground Beef (1 lb): Lean ground beef browned to juicy perfection, providing rich savory flavor and protein.
Yellow Onion (1, diced): Adds sweetness and depth, perfectly complementing the seasoned beef.
Tomato Paste (1 tbsp): Concentrated tomato flavor that enhances the sauce with rich umami notes.
Taco Seasoning (1 packet): A blend of spices that infuses the beef with traditional taco flavors like cumin and chili powder.
Red Enchilada Sauce (19 oz can): Provides a zesty, slightly smoky base that ties the dish together.
Rotel (10 oz can, drained): Diced tomatoes with green chilies add freshness and mild heat to balance richness.
Frozen Cheese Tortellini (19 oz bag): Soft, cheese-filled pasta that soaks up the sauce beautifully for a comforting texture.
Shredded Colby Jack Cheese (8 oz): Melted on top, adds creamy, mild cheese flavor with a beautiful golden finish.

Instructions

Brown Ground Beef and Sauté Onions: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef with diced yellow onion until the meat is fully browned. This step develops deep, savory flavors and softens the onions to complement the beef. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming oily.
Add Tomato Paste and Enhance Flavor: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This enriches the sauce’s tomato flavor and adds a rich umami quality to the skillet.
Mix in Seasonings and Sauces: Add the taco seasoning, red enchilada sauce, and drained Rotel tomatoes. Stir well to combine, creating a vibrant, well-spiced sauce that balances smoky, spicy, and fresh notes harmoniously.
Simmer Tortellini in Sauce: Incorporate the frozen cheese tortellini directly into the skillet and cover it. Simmer over low-medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta cooks through and absorbs the flavorful sauce, resulting in tender, cheesy bites.
Top with Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover again and let the cheese melt into a gooey, golden blanket that ties all the flavors together beautifully. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired for added freshness.

You Must Know

Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the dish light but flavorful.
Make sure to drain the Rotel well to avoid extra liquid diluting the sauce.
Covering the skillet during simmer helps the tortellini cook evenly and the cheese melt perfectly.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Add avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream on top to enhance creaminess and flavor.

Professional Tips

For a healthier twist, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken without compromising flavor.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for deeper smokiness if desired.
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley as garnish brighten the dish and add color contrast.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?: Yes, fresh tortellini cooks faster—reduce simmering time to 3-4 minutes to prevent overcooking.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?: Absolutely! Replace ground beef with cooked black beans or meatless crumbles and use vegetarian taco seasoning.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?: Yes, you can brown the beef and sauté onions up to a day ahead. Refrigerate and add the rest of the ingredients when ready to cook.
What cheese alternatives can I use?: Mozzarella or Monterey Jack are great alternatives to Colby Jack for melting and mild flavor.
How spicy is the dish?: The taco seasoning and Rotel add mild to medium heat, which can be adjusted by choosing mild or hot versions of the ingredients.
Can I freeze leftovers?: While possible, freezing may affect the texture of the tortellini; refrigerating is recommended for best results.