I’ve discovered the perfect way to combine the bold flavors of beef enchiladas with the comfort of pasta in one simple, hearty dish. This beef enchilada pasta is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. If you’re curious about the full recipe and tips, there’s more to explore!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Beef Enchilada Pasta combines the best of two beloved dishes into one irresistible meal. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and hearty: Packed with savory beef, gooey cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce.
- Easy to make: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep work.
- Crowd-pleaser: A family-friendly dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone.
Recipe
Beef Enchilada Pasta is a comforting and flavorful fusion dish that combines the rich, spicy taste of traditional enchiladas with the ease of pasta preparation. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and satisfying but need a quick and simple solution.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and uncooked pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheese until well combined.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes:
- For a spicier version, use hot enchilada sauce or add a diced jalapeño with the onions.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated, but add a splash of broth or water when reheating to keep it moist.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serving:
4-6 servings
Calories:
Approximately 450 calories per serving
Cuisine:
Mexican-American Fusion
Nutrition
This recipe for Beef Enchilada Pasta is a delicious and hearty meal. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrition | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
When I’m serving up a plate of beef enchilada pasta, I love pairing it with sides that balance the rich, savory flavors.
A crisp, invigorating salad with avocado and lime dressing is my go-to, or I’ll toss together some roasted veggies for extra texture.
For beverage pairings, a chilled lime-infused water or a light beer works wonders. If I’m feeling fancy, a zesty margarita adds a fun twist.
These simple side dishes and drink choices let the pasta shine while keeping the meal feel fresh and complete.
It’s all about creating a vibe that’s as effortless as it’s delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
I can definitely use a different type of pasta! Pasta shapes like penne or fusilli work well, but I’ll adjust the cooking times since they might take longer or shorter than the original choice. It’s all about flexibility!
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
I’d say it’s totally freezer-friendly! For freezer storage, I’d portion it out and seal it tight. When reheating, I’d thaw it overnight or pop it straight into the oven for a quick, hassle-free meal.
Can I Substitute Ground Beef With Another Protein?
I’ve learned 70% of people experiment with protein alternatives in recipes. You can swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options, but expect flavor differences—each brings its own twist to the dish.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
I can adjust spices by starting small and tasting as I go. If it’s too mild, I’ll add a pinch more chili powder or cayenne. For spice alternatives, I’ll swap in smoked paprika or cumin for warmth without heat.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
I’ve been experimenting with dairy-free cooking lately, and guess what? It’s simpler than you’d think! Swap in dairy alternatives like coconut cream or nut-based vegan cheese—they’ll let you savor the flavors without any compromise. Freedom tastes good!
