Save Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta brings together the bold, zesty flavors of classic Mexican enchiladas and the comforting heartiness of pasta for a quick weeknight dinner. This one-pot meal uses lean ground beef simmered in enchilada sauce, combined with tender pasta, and topped with melted cheddar cheese and a cool dollop of sour cream for the perfect blend of savory and creamy.
Save This dish captures the essence of traditional beef enchiladas but in a faster, fuss-free pasta form. The aromatic sautéed onions and garlic build a savory base, while the enchilada sauce brings just the right amount of spice and depth. Melting cheddar cheese on top adds creamy richness, making every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- ½ cup (120 g) sour cream (for serving)
- 8 oz (225 g) penne or rotini pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) enchilada sauce
Instructions
- 1. Cook the 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 vegetables
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- 3. Simmer with sauce
- Stir in the enchilada sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- 4. Prepare 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 an extra boost of flavor, consider adding 1 teaspoon of ground cumin and ½ teaspoon of chili powder together with the onions while sautéing. You can also swap the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free versions to suit your dietary preferences.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is versatile—swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Add garnishes like chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeños to bring fresh, vibrant notes and a spicy kick.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta straight from the skillet for a cozy, comforting meal. The melted cheddar cheese topping and creamy sour cream add delicious richness that balances the spicy enchilada sauce perfectly.
Save With minimal prep and only a handful of ingredients, Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta is a winner for anyone wanting a flavorful meal fast. The fusion of Mexican and Italian elements creates something familiar yet exciting, sure to be a repeat family favorite.
Kitchen Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Penne or rotini pasta hold the sauce well and maintain texture, but any short pasta shape can be used.
- → Can I use different proteins instead of beef?
Yes, ground chicken or turkey are great alternatives for a lighter variant.
- → How can I add more spice to the dish?
Incorporate ground cumin and chili powder when sautéing onions or add sliced jalapeños as garnish for extra heat.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Replacing the pasta with gluten-free varieties ensures the dish suits gluten-sensitive diets.
- → What toppings complement the flavors best?
Shredded cheddar cheese adds a melty richness, while a dollop of sour cream balances the zest with creaminess.