Sizzling Enchilada Pasta Recipe: A Fiery Fusion of Flavors
Spicy and creamy enchilada pasta combines two comfort food favorites in one irresistible dish.
Mexican-inspired flavors dance across your plate with zesty seasonings and rich textures.
Cheese melts perfectly between tender pasta shells, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Weeknight dinners become extraordinary when you blend traditional enchilada ingredients with classic pasta.
Hearty and satisfying, this recipe promises to become a new household staple.
pasta lovers and Mexican cuisine enthusiasts will absolutely adore this unexpected culinary mashup.
Dive into a meal that guarantees smiles and clean plates.
Reasons to Enjoy Enchilada Pasta Recipe
Key Ingredients for Enchilada Pasta Recipe
Protein Base:Aromatics and Seasonings:Liquid and Cheese Components:Garnish:How to Cook Enchilada Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown The Protein
Sizzle ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the meat transforms from pink to a rich, golden brown color.
Carefully drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and tasty.
Step 2: Awaken The Aromatics
Toss diced onions and minced garlic into the skillet.
Let them dance and soften, releasing their fragrant oils and creating a delicious base for the dish.
Step 3: Spice Up The Flavor
Sprinkle in a vibrant blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir quickly to toast the spices and unlock their deep, complex flavors.
Step 4: Create The Saucy Base
Pour enchilada sauce and broth into the skillet.
Add uncooked pasta and stir gently. Cover and let the mixture simmer, allowing the pasta to absorb all the delicious liquid and become perfectly tender.
Step 5: Melt The Cheese
Remove the lid and introduce a cascade of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a luxurious, creamy texture that coats every inch of the pasta.
Step 6: Finish And Garnish
Optional: Swirl in sour cream for extra richness. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a burst of brightness.
Serve immediately while the dish is steaming hot and irresistibly creamy.
Helpful Tips for Enchilada Pasta Recipe
Flavor Variations for Enchilada Pasta Recipe
Pairing Suggestions for Enchilada Pasta Recipe
Storage Tips for Enchilada Pasta Recipe
FAQs
Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a leaner protein alternative and will absorb the same delicious enchilada spices.
The recipe has mild spice from chili powder and cumin. You can adjust heat by adding more or less chili powder, or including diced jalapeños for extra kick.
No, the uncooked pasta cooks directly in the enchilada sauce and broth, absorbing flavors and creating a one-pot meal with less cleanup.
Mexican blend cheese, pepper jack, or a combination of any melting cheeses like mozzarella and monterey jack will work great in this recipe.
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Best Enchilada Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Mexican-inspired enchilada pasta blends comfort food classics for a hearty family dinner. Spicy ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty sauce create a memorable meal that satisfies hungry crowds.
Ingredients
Main Proteins:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef (or ground turkey)
Seasonings and Spices:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Base and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 8 ounces (227 grams) uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, crumbling with a utensil until fully browned. Drain excess grease thoroughly.
- Incorporate diced onions and minced garlic into the skillet, cooking until vegetables become translucent and fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle in aromatic spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toast spices for 60 seconds to enhance their flavor profile.
- Pour enchilada sauce and broth into the skillet, then gently fold in uncooked pasta. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once pasta reaches al dente consistency, reduce heat and gradually blend shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until smooth and fully integrated.
- Remove skillet from heat source and fold in sour cream for additional creaminess, ensuring even distribution throughout the dish.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves, creating a vibrant visual and flavor finish. Serve immediately while piping hot.
Notes
- Customize heat levels by adjusting chili powder or adding jalapeños for spice enthusiasts.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter protein option.
- Ensure pasta is fully submerged in liquid while simmering to guarantee even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking process and prevent overcooking, maintaining perfect al dente texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 565 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
John Conley
Founder & Culinary Storyteller
Expertise
Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization
Education
Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.
Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.
John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.