This Beef Enchilada Pasta combines the rich, savory flavors of traditional beef enchiladas with the comfort of pasta, all prepared in a single pan for minimal cleanup. It’s an ideal dinner option for busy weeknights, offering a hearty and delicious meal that the whole family will enjoy.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 12 ounces dry rotini pasta
• 3 cups water
• 2 cups enchilada sauce
• 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Directions

1. Sauté the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion; cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease. 
2. Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in minced garlic and taco seasoning; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. 
3. Combine Pasta and Liquids: Add dry rotini pasta, water, and enchilada sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil. 
4. Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. 
5. Incorporate Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in shredded Colby Jack cheese until melted and well combined. 
6. Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as chopped cilantro, sour cream, or sliced black olives, if desired. 

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 444 kcal
• Total Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 9mg
• Sodium: 1289mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 84g
• Dietary Fiber: 8g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 18g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pan beef enchilada pasta offers several benefits that make it a must-try for anyone who enjoys comforting meals with minimal effort. First and foremost, it’s an incredibly time-saving recipe. Instead of spending hours cooking and cleaning multiple pots and pans, everything is cooked together in a single skillet. The ingredients meld together beautifully, allowing the pasta to absorb all the rich flavors of the enchilada sauce and seasonings.

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

What makes beef enchilada pasta so delicious is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The seasoned ground beef brings a savory, slightly spicy kick, while the enchilada sauce adds a deep, tangy richness that ties everything together. The pasta soaks up all the flavors, becoming tender and infused with the bold essence of Mexican spices. Finally, the melted cheese provides the perfect finishing touch, creating a creamy, gooey texture that makes every bite irresistible. The combination of spices and sauces gives this dish an authentic Tex-Mex feel without requiring complicated ingredients or techniques. The use of taco seasoning enhances the depth of flavor, while the enchilada sauce acts as the main binding component that brings all the ingredients together. If you enjoy bold, zesty dishes with a bit of heat, you can always adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or a spicier enchilada sauce. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder taste, using a mild enchilada sauce and balancing it with a dollop of sour cream can create a more subtle flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Beef enchilada pasta is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes and toppings can elevate it even further. One of the best ways to enhance this dish is by adding fresh toppings such as chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sliced black olives, or a squeeze of lime. These additions bring freshness and contrast to the richness of the pasta. For a crunchier texture, you can serve the pasta with tortilla chips or a side of garlic bread. A light salad, such as a simple lettuce and tomato mix with a zesty vinaigrette, complements the heartiness of the pasta without overpowering it. If you want a full Tex-Mex feast, serving the dish alongside refried beans, Mexican rice, or grilled vegetables is a fantastic way to create a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the great things about beef enchilada pasta is that it makes excellent leftovers. The flavors continue to develop over time, making the dish even more delicious the next day. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, you can either microwave individual portions for about one to two minutes or warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. If you want to make this meal ahead of time, you can prepare it as usual and freeze portions for later. Simply let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

Health and Nutritional Benefits

While beef enchilada pasta is an indulgent comfort food, it also has nutritional benefits. Ground beef provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall health. If you opt for lean ground beef, you can reduce the fat content while still getting the same rich flavor. The pasta adds carbohydrates, which provide energy, while the cheese offers a dose of calcium for strong bones. If you’re looking to make this dish even healthier, there are several ways to do so. Using whole wheat or high-protein pasta can add more fiber and nutrients. Swapping out regular cheese for a reduced-fat version can lower the overall calorie count. Additionally, incorporating vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and spinach can boost the vitamin and mineral content of the dish.

Conclusion

Beef enchilada pasta is a fantastic dish that combines the best of two comfort food classics enchiladas and pasta. It’s flavorful, filling, and incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. With its bold Mexican-inspired flavors, creamy cheese, and satisfying texture, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. What makes this recipe even better is its flexibility. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your personal taste, whether that means making it spicier, adding extra vegetables, or even turning it into a vegetarian-friendly dish.