Pin Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta brings together the best of two worlds: the bold, zesty flavors of classic Mexican enchiladas and the comfort of warm, hearty pasta. This quick, one-pot meal combines lean ground beef with savory enchilada sauce, tender pasta, and a generous topping of melty cheddar cheese to create a satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Its simplicity and vibrant taste make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Pin This recipe balances convenience with bold taste, making it a go-to option when time is limited but cravings are high. The melding of beef, sauce, and pasta creates a hearty meal that’s both nourishing and enjoyable for any season.
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 ground 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 onions and garlic
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- 3. Add enchilada sauce
- Stir in the enchilada sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- 4. Cook 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
Für einen intensiveren Geschmack können Sie 1 Teelöffel gemahlenen Kreuzkümmel und ½ Teelöffel Chilipulver mit den Zwiebeln hinzufügen. Verwenden Sie für eine gesündere Variante Vollkorn- oder glutenfreie Pasta.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Sie können mageres Hühner- oder Putenhackfleisch als leichtere Alternative verwenden. Für eine frische Note garnieren Sie das Gericht mit gehacktem Koriander oder in Scheiben geschnittenen Jalapeños.
Serviervorschläge
Servieren Sie das Gericht mit einem Klecks Sauerrahm und warmem, knusprigem Brot oder einem frischen grünen Salat, um eine ausgewogene Mahlzeit zu schaffen.
Pin Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta combines speed and flavor effortlessly, making it a versatile meal that feels homemade even on the busiest days. With straightforward steps and delicious results, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your rotation.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Penne or rotini pasta are ideal as they hold the sauce well, but any short pasta shape works fine.
- → Can I make it spicier?
Yes, adding chili powder or sliced jalapeños provides a pleasant heat that complements the enchilada flavors.
- → How do I ensure the beef stays tender?
Brown the lean ground beef over medium heat without overcooking, then simmer gently with sauce to keep it juicy.
- → Are there good substitutes for beef?
Ground chicken or turkey are great alternatives for a lighter variation while keeping the dish flavorful.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, cooking the beef and sauce mixture in advance and combining with freshly cooked pasta just before serving works well.