Enchilada Pasta Recipe

Looking for a comforting, flavor-packed meal that combines two beloved dishes? This Enchilada Pasta Recipe is the perfect fusion of Mexican-inspired enchilada flavors with pasta! It’s loaded with seasoned ground beef (or chicken), tangy enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and tender pasta, all brought together in a one-pot dish that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re whipping up dinner for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this cheesy enchilada pasta is guaranteed to hit the spot.

this Recipe

What is “Enchilada Pasta”?

Enchilada Pasta is a fun twist on traditional enchiladas that replaces tortillas with pasta. It combines the bold flavors of enchilada sauce, seasoned meat, beans or veggies, and melted cheese, mixed with tender pasta to create a rich, creamy, cheesy dish. The best part? It’s made in one pot, which means fewer dishes and an easy cleanup. This hearty and comforting meal delivers all the flavors of enchiladas but in a simpler, quicker format.

Ingredients List for Enchilada Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Enchilada Pasta:

For the Pasta:

1. 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
2. 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or even chorizo)
3. 1 small onion (diced)
4. 3 cloves garlic (minced)
5. 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce (or green enchilada sauce for a different flavor)
6. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
7. 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
8. 1 cup frozen corn (or fresh corn kernels)
9. 2 teaspoons chili powder
10. 1 teaspoon cumin
11. ½ teaspoon paprika
12. ½ teaspoon garlic powder
13. Salt and pepper to taste
14. 2 cups chicken or beef broth (for cooking the pasta)

For the Topping:

1. 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
2. ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
3. Green onions (optional garnish)
4. Sour cream (optional, for serving)
5. Diced avocado (optional, for serving)

Ingredients List for Enchilada Pasta (Healthier Option)

For a lighter version of Enchilada Pasta, here are a few substitutions:

1. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (for added fiber or dietary restrictions)
2. Ground turkey or ground chicken (leaner than ground beef)
3. Low-sodium enchilada sauce (to reduce salt)
4. Reduced-fat cheese (for fewer calories)
5. Greek yogurt (as a lighter substitute for sour cream)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable, and you can easily tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Protein Options: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, chorizo, or even shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Beans: Instead of black beans, try using pinto beans, kidney beans, or refried beans for a different texture.
• Cheese: You can use any cheese you like—cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Leave out the meat and add extra beans, veggies like zucchini or bell peppers, and even mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Enchilada Pasta:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta

1. Add Enchilada Sauce and Tomatoes: Pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), black beans, corn, and chicken or beef broth. Stir to combine.
2. Add Pasta: Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes (or according to the pasta package instructions), stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Bake (Optional)

1. Top with Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Let it melt over medium heat, or if you want a bubbly, golden cheese top, transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream or diced avocado if desired.
2. Serve: Let the pasta cool slightly, then serve in bowls or plates with additional garnishes.

How to Cook Enchilada Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the Beef: Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, then add spices to build the base flavor.
2. Add Enchilada Sauce and Pasta: Mix in enchilada sauce, broth, black beans, and pasta, cooking everything together in one pot.
3. Top with Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked through, sprinkle cheese on top and either melt it on the stovetop or broil for a crispy cheese topping.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs, sour cream, and avocado for a colorful, flavorful finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly in the sauce.
2. Not Stirring the Pasta: Stir the pasta occasionally while it’s cooking in the sauce to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
3. Under-seasoning the Dish: Taste the enchilada pasta before serving and adjust the seasonings if needed. Enchilada sauce can vary in saltiness, so balance it out to taste.
4. Too Little Liquid: If the pasta absorbs the sauce too quickly and it starts to look dry, add a splash of broth to keep it creamy and saucy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This dish is flavorful and comforting, but you can make it even more visually appealing with a few presentation ideas:

1. Top with Fresh Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh cilantro, green onions, and diced avocado over the pasta for added color and freshness.
2. Serve with Sides: Pair this enchilada pasta with a simple green salad, tortilla chips, or a side of guacamole for a complete meal.
3. Extra Cheese: Add an extra sprinkle of cheese and pop the dish under the broiler for a crispy, golden cheese topping that will impress everyone at the table.

How to Serve Enchilada Pasta

• Family Style: Serve the pasta directly from the skillet or pot for a casual, family-style meal.
• Individual Bowls: Scoop individual portions into bowls or plates and garnish with fresh herbs and a dollop of sour cream.
• With Sides: Serve with tortilla chips, salsa, and a green salad for a complete Mexican-inspired dinner.

Presentation Ideas for Enchilada Pasta

1. Skillet Presentation: Serve the enchilada pasta straight from the cast iron skillet or large pan for a rustic, comforting presentation.
2. Herb Garnish: Top with freshly chopped cilantro, parsley, or green onions for a bright, fresh look.
3. Cheese Pull: Let the cheese melt and become slightly golden on top, ensuring a great "cheese pull" when you serve it.

Enchilada Pasta Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time by cooking the pasta and meat mixture, then reheating it when you’re ready to serve. Add the cheese just before reheating.
• Freezing: This pasta freezes well! Let it cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it gets too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef?
A: Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe and is a great time-saver. Just add it during the simmering step.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Just use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, simply omit the meat and add extra beans

or vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian version.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! You can use any short pasta shape you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or even shells.

Conclusion

This Enchilada Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of Mexican-inspired flavors with the ease of a one-pot pasta dish. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, enchilada sauce, beans, corn, and cheese, it’s hearty, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Customize it to your taste, top it with fresh garnishes, and enjoy this cheesy, flavorful dish that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

Print