Enchilada Pasta: The Ultimate Enchilada Pasta Recipe
Introduction to Enchilada Pasta
Enchilada pasta is a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas, blending the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comforting texture of pasta. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its savory blend of beef, cheese, and enchilada sauce, Enchilada Pasta is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a favorite among home cooks of all ages.
A Personal Story Behind My Enchilada Pasta Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed taco night, where we would gather around the table with all our favorite toppings. One day, I decided to combine my love for pasta with the flavors of enchiladas, and that’s when Enchilada Pasta was born! It quickly became a staple in my household, bringing everyone together with its rich flavors and comforting appeal. I love sharing this recipe with friends and family, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your home as well!
What Makes This Enchilada Pasta Recipe Special?
What sets this Enchilada Pasta apart is its simplicity and versatility. It’s a one-pot dish that combines the ease of pasta with the bold flavors of enchiladas. The use of ground beef and taco seasoning gives it a hearty texture, while the creamy cheese and optional ingredients like corn and cream cheese add richness and depth. Plus, it’s a customizable dish – you can easily switch up the toppings to suit your taste or dietary needs!
The Full Enchilada Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 tsp taco seasoning (or a mix of cumin powder, chili powder, and garlic powder)
- 20 oz enchilada sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 8 oz dry rotini pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack, Colby, or Cheddar cheese
- Optional Ingredients:
- 2 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup corn (thawed if frozen)
- Green onions, diced tomatoes, black olives, sour cream, and cilantro for topping
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This helps to create a nice base for the flavors to develop.
- Add diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. This step enhances the sweetness of the onions.
- Add ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Make sure to cook it thoroughly to ensure food safety.
- Stir in taco seasoning (or garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin) and cook for another minute. This will infuse the beef with wonderful flavors.
- Pour in enchilada sauce, beef broth, and dry pasta. Stir well, cover, and bring to a boil. The cover helps to trap steam and cook the pasta evenly.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Keep an eye on it to prevent sticking!
- If using sour cream, cream cheese, or corn, add them in the last 2 minutes of cooking. This step adds creaminess and richness to your dish.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese. Add any optional mix-ins. This is where the dish gets its cheesy goodness!
- Garnish with desired toppings and serve. Feel free to get creative with your toppings!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Enchilada Pasta
Enchilada Pasta can be served straight from the skillet as a comforting main dish. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh side salad or some warm, crusty bread. You can also offer a variety of toppings on the side, such as diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, or fresh cilantro, allowing everyone to customize their servings. If you’re looking for variations, consider adding beans for extra protein, or substitute the beef with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Enchilada Pasta
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with your favorite meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Enchilada Pasta?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It should keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What sides pair well with Enchilada Pasta?
Some great side options include a simple green salad, Mexican rice, or tortilla chips with salsa.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450
Servings: 6
Enchilada Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet For cooking the pasta and beef together.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tsp taco seasoning or a mix of cumin powder, chili powder, and garlic powder
- 20 oz enchilada sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 8 oz dry rotini pasta
- 1.5 cups shredded cheese Monterey Jack, Colby, or Cheddar
- 2 oz cream cheese optional, cubed
- 1 cup corn thawed if frozen
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Stir in taco seasoning and cook for another minute.
- Pour in enchilada sauce, beef broth, and dry pasta. Stir well, cover, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- If using cream cheese or corn, add them in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese. Add any optional mix-ins.
- Garnish with desired toppings and serve.