If you are craving a meal that is bold in flavor, delightfully cheesy, and unbelievably easy, then dive into this Beef Enchilada Pasta (One-Pan Meal) Recipe. Imagine tender pasta twirled with seasoned ground beef, all enveloped in rich enchilada sauce and ooey-gooey melted cheese, all cooked in just one skillet. It’s comfort food with a Mexican-inspired flair that comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a hearty, satisfying meal without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples that come together to build layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color in every bite. Each one plays a crucial role in bringing the dish to life, whether it’s the savory beef, the zesty enchilada sauce, or the melty cheese that finishes it off.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein, providing richness and heartiness that keep you full and fueled.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth when sautéed alongside the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a subtle, savory punch.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, or shells): The perfect vehicle to soak up all the saucy goodness for a comforting texture.
- 1 can enchilada sauce (10 oz): Brings the signature Mexican-inspired flavor and a slight kick to the dish.
- 2 cups beef broth: Keeps the pasta moist while blending all the bold flavors seamlessly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts gloriously to create a luscious, cheesy topping.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Elevates the smoky spice profile without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tsp cumin: Adds a warm, earthy background note for authentic flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the other ingredients.
- Optional: sliced olives, green onions, sour cream: Great for garnish and extra bursts of flavor and texture.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Pasta (One-Pan Meal) Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as you go. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until the onions soften and everything smells absolutely irresistible. This step lays down the foundation of flavor, sealing in the juices in the beef and unlocking the sweet, aromatic notes from the onion and garlic.
Step 2: Combine Sauce, Broth, Pasta, and Spices
Next up, pour in the enchilada sauce and beef broth directly into the skillet. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring everything together so the spices coat every ingredient evenly. Add the uncooked pasta into the mix, making sure it’s submerged in the flavorful liquid. This step is where the magic happens — the pasta will slowly absorb the spicy, savory sauce and broth as it cooks.
Step 3: Simmer Covered Until Pasta is Tender
Cover your skillet with a lid and lower the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer gently for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll notice the pasta softening and thickening the sauce beautifully. This keeps everything moist and melds the flavors so perfectly that each forkful will be a taste sensation.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese Until Melted
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Stir it gently but thoroughly to melt the cheese into a creamy, rich layer that blankets the entire dish. This cheesy finale makes the Beef Enchilada Pasta (One-Pan Meal) Recipe a sensational comfort food that’s hard to resist.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Pasta (One-Pan Meal) Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the dish, consider topping with sliced olives for a briny contrast, chopped green onions for a fresh crunch, or dollops of cool sour cream to balance the spicy richness. These simple garnishes make the presentation inviting and introduce delightful textures that keep you coming back for more.
Side Dishes
This beef enchilada pasta shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables to add freshness and a little variety. A side of warm tortilla chips or a light corn salsa also complements the Mexican-inspired flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Beef Enchilada Pasta (One-Pan Meal) Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a rustic, cozy feel. Alternatively, spoon it over a bed of cilantro lime rice or stuff it inside warm tortillas for a scrumptious enchilada-pasta fusion taco night!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated promptly. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making this recipe a perfect candidate for quick weekday lunches or dinner the next night.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, keep in mind that pasta texture might soften a bit. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to restore creaminess and prevent the pasta from drying out. Warm it over low heat on the stove or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through and cheesy goodness is restored.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! Rotini, penne, or shells all work wonderfully since their shapes hold the sauce well and cook evenly in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans like black beans for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the flavors vibrant.
How spicy is the dish?
The spice level is mild to moderate thanks to the chili powder and enchilada sauce, but you can easily adjust it by choosing mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce depending on your heat preference.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely. Adding corn, black beans, bell peppers, or even zucchini can boost nutrition, flavor, and texture while making the dish even heartier.
What is the best cheese to use?
Cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend melts beautifully and offers the perfect balance of flavor and meltiness, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra zest.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Enchilada Pasta (One-Pan Meal) Recipe is a game changer when craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that won’t keep you in the kitchen all night. With easy steps, minimal cleanup, and an explosion of savory, cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again!
Print
Beef Enchilada Pasta (One-Pan Meal) Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A hearty one-pan skillet meal combining tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese for a quick and comforting Mexican-inspired dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
- 1 can enchilada sauce (10 oz)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese and Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Optional: sliced olives
- Optional: green onions
- Optional: sour cream
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Sauces and Spices: Stir in the enchilada sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Cook Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to ensure it’s submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Melt the Cheese: Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese over the hot pasta. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with your preferred toppings such as sliced olives, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting one-pan beef enchilada pasta meal.
Notes
- Add black beans or corn to the skillet for extra volume and added nutrients.
- Use medium or hot enchilada sauce to adjust the heat level according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, One-Pan Meal
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
