Easy Enchilada Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the bold flavors of enchiladas meeting the comforting goodness of pasta. This Easy Enchilada Pasta is the perfect fusion dish, combining tender pasta with a rich, spicy sauce, gooey cheese, and hearty protein.

I first whipped up this dish on a whim when I craved Mexican flavors but had a box of penne pasta begging to be used. The result was so irresistible that it instantly became a family favorite, especially on busy weeknights. Let’s dive in and explore what makes this recipe so special.

Why You'll Love This Easy Enchilada Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this mouthwatering pasta dish. It's not just tasty—it's a surefire way to simplify dinner without sacrificing flavor.

First off, it’s incredibly quick to make. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this one-pot wonder is a lifesaver on those nights when you need dinner in a flash.

The flavors are bold and satisfying, blending the smoky, spicy notes of enchilada sauce with the creamy comfort of melted cheese. It's a taste sensation that will leave your family reaching for seconds.

Budget-friendly ingredients make this dish as easy on your wallet as it is on your time. A few pantry staples, like pasta, canned enchilada sauce, and shredded cheese, come together to create a meal that feels indulgent but costs just a few dollars per serving.

Lastly, it’s endlessly adaptable. Whether you want to make it vegetarian, add your favorite protein, or spice it up, this recipe works with whatever you have on hand.

If you're ready to make dinnertime a breeze, keep reading for everything you need to know to bring this dish to life.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Easy Enchilada Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a role in building the layers of taste and texture that make this dish unforgettable.

The pasta is the foundation of this recipe. Penne or rotini work beautifully, as their ridges hold onto the enchilada sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Feel free to swap in whole wheat or gluten-free options if needed.

For the protein, ground beef or shredded rotisserie chicken are classic choices. Both provide hearty, satisfying bites that complement the pasta and sauce. You could also use black beans or cooked lentils for a vegetarian twist.

The enchilada sauce is the heart of the dish. Opt for a medium or mild red enchilada sauce for the perfect balance of heat and smokiness. If you prefer, green enchilada sauce offers a tangy alternative that works just as well.

Cheese is where the magic happens! Shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend is ideal, melting into the sauce for a creamy, gooey texture. For an extra kick, try pepper jack cheese.

A few pantry staples like onion, garlic, and spices (cumin, chili powder) round out the flavors, making the dish truly irresistible.

For equipment, you’ll need just one large skillet or a Dutch oven, keeping cleanup minimal and your cooking process smooth.

How To Make This Easy Enchilada Pasta

Crafting this dish is as simple as it is delicious. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté diced onion until it turns soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting its aroma bloom.

Next, add your ground beef (or preferred protein) to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and flavorful.

Stir in the enchilada sauce, water or chicken broth, and uncooked pasta. Give everything a good mix, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 12-15 minutes.

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheese over the top. Cover again for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey, irresistible layer.

Before serving, give everything a gentle stir to combine. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor and a pop of color.

From start to finish, you’ll have a comforting, flavor-packed meal on the table in just half an hour.

Storage Options

This Easy Enchilada Pasta stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

To refrigerate, transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating is simple. Place the pasta in a skillet or microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add black beans, corn, or diced zucchini for a plant-based version.
• Spicy Twist: If you love heat, use hot enchilada sauce and top with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper.
• Different Proteins: Ground turkey, sausage, or shredded pork are fantastic alternatives to ground beef.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream for an extra creamy sauce.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb take.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. This recipe is forgiving and works with a variety of ingredients, so have fun and make it your own. With each variation, you’ll discover new ways to enjoy this easy, family-friendly meal.

Print