If you love the bold, vibrant flavors of Mexican food and the comforting satisfaction of pasta, then you are in for a treat with this Beef Enchilada Pasta (One Pan Meal) Recipe. This dish packs all the zesty goodness of enchiladas into a creamy, cheesy pasta all cooked effortlessly in one pan. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet comes together in a flash, making it an absolute winner for busy days or when you want a fuss-free meal with a punch of flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play an important role. From the hearty ground beef that provides rich protein, to the enchilada sauce delivering authentic spice and tang, every component adds depth, texture, or color, transforming basic staples into a dazzling one-pan meal.
- 1 lb ground beef: Use lean beef to keep it juicy without too much grease.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a mild bite when sautéed with the beef.
- 2 cups enchilada sauce: The heart of the dish’s signature flavor; choose your preferred heat level.
- 2 cups water or broth: Helps the pasta cook perfectly while infusing subtle flavor.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or similar): A sturdy shape like penne holds the sauce well.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: Melts into glorious creaminess; cheddar or Mexican blend works beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Pasta (One Pan Meal) Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add your ground beef and chopped onion. Cook them together, breaking up the beef with a spatula until it’s beautifully browned and the onion is tender and fragrant. This step is where your dish builds its savory foundation, so take a moment to enjoy the sizzle and aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 2: Add Sauce, Pasta, and Liquid
Once your beef and onions are perfectly browned, pour in the enchilada sauce, then add the uncooked pasta along with your water or broth. Stir everything thoroughly to combine, making sure all the pasta is submerged so it will cook evenly. This is where the magic starts—your pasta will absorb all those rich enchilada flavors as it simmers.
Step 3: Cover and Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. Let the mixture simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Be sure to check it occasionally to avoid sticking and give it a gentle stir if needed. This stage is crucial so the pasta becomes perfectly al dente, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese
With the pasta fully cooked, remove the lid and sprinkle your shredded cheese over the top. Stir it all together while the heat is still on low, allowing the cheese to melt into a luscious, creamy sauce that coats every bite. This cheesy finish ties your Beef Enchilada Pasta (One Pan Meal) Recipe together with a comforting richness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Pasta (One Pan Meal) Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t skip the garnishing! A scattering of chopped green onions or fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a bright, fresh flavor that complements the hearty, cheesy pasta perfectly. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime to bring a creamy tang and zing that lifts the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
Since this is a complete one-pan meal, side dishes can be light and refreshing. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully. For a more traditional touch, serve with warm corn tortillas or a simple Mexican street corn salad to enhance the festive vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon your Beef Enchilada Pasta (One Pan Meal) Recipe into individual mini cast iron skillets or colorful ramekins for single servings that look totally Insta-worthy. Add a final sprinkle of cheese and broil briefly for a bubbly golden crust, making it extra special and perfect for entertaining friends or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef Enchilada Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it’s a great option for next-day lunches or dinners. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely, although the pasta may soften a bit upon reheating. If you want to freeze it, place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your leftover Beef Enchilada Pasta (One Pan Meal) Recipe over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also use the microwave, covered loosely, heating in short bursts and stirring in between until warmed through and creamy once again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be delicious substitutes if you want a different flavor or leaner option. Each will add its own unique character while keeping the recipe quick and easy.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne or other short pasta shapes like rotini or rigatoni are ideal because they hold the sauce well and cook evenly in one pan. Avoid very delicate pastas as they might overcook during simmering.
How spicy is the Beef Enchilada Pasta (One Pan Meal) Recipe)?
The spice level depends mainly on the enchilada sauce you choose. Mild sauces will yield a gently spiced meal, while hotter versions bring more heat. You can always add fresh jalapeños or serve with spicy toppings if you want extra kick.
Can this be made vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for beans or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth to keep the depth of flavor. The enchilada sauce and cheese bring plenty of richness to satisfy veg-friendly diners.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely. The creamy, cheesy pasta with familiar flavors often appeals to kids. To tone down the spice, opt for mild enchilada sauce and skip any extra hot peppers. It’s comfort food that’s easy to customize for little palates.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Enchilada Pasta (One Pan Meal) Recipe is a true winner when you want something fast, flavorful, and fuss-free to brighten up your dinner routine. With its vibrant flavors, cheesy goodness, and effortless preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try soon — your taste buds and your busy schedule will thank you!
Print
Beef Enchilada Pasta (One Pan Meal) Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Beef Enchilada Pasta is a vibrant one-pan meal that combines zesty enchilada flavors with tender pasta and savory ground beef. Perfect for a quick, hearty dinner, all ingredients are cooked together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 2 cups water or broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or similar)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onion: In a large skillet or pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add sauce, pasta, and liquid: Stir in the enchilada sauce, uncooked pasta, and water or broth. Mix everything well to combine evenly.
- Simmer the pasta: Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate cheese: Remove the lid, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the pasta, and stir until the cheese melts and is fully incorporated into the dish.
Notes
- For extra freshness, garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro before serving.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a different protein.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper according to taste.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a dash of chili powder or chipotle pepper.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: One-Pan Meal
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
