Save to Pinterest Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta brings together the bold, zesty flavors of classic Mexican enchiladas with the comforting warmth of pasta in one simple dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe uses lean ground beef simmered in rich enchilada sauce, combined with tender penne or rotini, and topped with melty cheddar cheese and a refreshing dollop of sour cream for the ultimate satisfying meal.
Save to Pinterest This flavorful one-pot meal is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. It’s family-friendly, easy to prepare, and packs a protein punch making it well-rounded and delicious.
Ingredients
- Protein & Dairy
1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
½ cup (120 g) sour cream (for serving) - Pasta
8 oz (225 g) penne or rotini pasta - Vegetables
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced - Sauce
1 cup (240 ml) enchilada sauce
Instructions
- 1. Cook ground beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- 2. Sauté onions and garlic
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- 3. Add enchilada sauce
- Stir in the enchilada sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- 4. Cook pasta
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
- 5. Combine pasta and beef mixture
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
- 6. Serve
- Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a deeper flavor, consider adding 1 teaspoon ground cumin and ½ teaspoon chili powder when sautéing the onions. This spice blend enhances the authentic enchilada taste and adds warmth to the dish.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option. Additionally, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works well if you prefer a different dietary approach. Customize by adding fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeños for some heat.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this enchilada pasta hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar and a generous dollop of sour cream. Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
Save to Pinterest With its easy preparation and bold flavors, Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta is sure to become a favorite weeknight meal. Quick, cheesy, and deliciously saucy, this dish proves that comfort food can be healthy and fun to make at home.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other pasta types?
Yes, rotini or penne work best, but you can substitute with any short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli.
- → How do I adjust the spiciness?
Add chili powder or sliced jalapeños for heat, or omit them for a milder flavor.
- → What can replace ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter alternatives without sacrificing texture.
- → Is it possible to make it gluten-free?
Yes, using gluten-free pasta maintains the dish's integrity while accommodating dietary needs.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.
- → Can I add vegetables?
Adding diced bell peppers or corn can enhance both flavor and nutrition.