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
Scale
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