Cheesy Enchilada Beef Pasta

Cheesy hearty and full of cozy flavors this Enchilada Pasta brings together the best of pasta night and taco night without fuss or mess Everything cooks up in one pot for a comforting dish that satisfies hungry bellies and busy days I have made it countless times for weeknight dinners and everyone races to the table when they smell it bubbling away

My family fell in love with this pasta after a school night when I tossed everything in one pan and hoped for the best It quickly became our top request especially with all the gooey cheese on top

Ingredients

• Olive oil: adds richness to the base choose a fresh high quality oil for best flavor
• Yellow onion: creates a sweet aromatic base look for firm onions with papery skins
• Ground beef: adds savoriness and protein opt for lean beef to keep things from getting greasy
• Taco seasoning or cumin chili and garlic powder: brings the Mexican inspired flavor adjust the blend to your taste or try homemade for extra depth
• Enchilada sauce: is the star of the dish be sure to use a variety you enjoy as its flavor comes through in every bite
• Beef broth: gives body and helps cook the pasta feel free to swap with chicken broth if needed
• Rotini pasta: soaks up the sauce choose sturdy shapes that hold on to all the flavor
• Monterey jack colby or cheddar cheese: create that melty topping buy block cheese and shred it yourself for the best melt
• Optional cream cheese: for creaminess add just a couple cubes to soften the flavor
• Corn: brings color and sweetness use fresh or frozen for the best results
• Green onions black olives diced tomatoes sour cream and cilantro: make perfect fresh toppings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the Pan and Sauté Onions:

Warm olive oil in a large skillet or a Dutch oven over medium heat Add diced onion Cook slowly stirring often for three minutes until the onion is tender and fragrant The onion should become slightly golden but not brown

Brown the Ground Beef:

Add ground beef to the pan Break it up using a wooden spoon Cook for five to six minutes Stir regularly until all the pink is gone and the beef is crumbly and browned If using higher fat beef spoon out excess grease before moving to the next step

Season the Meat:

Sprinkle taco seasoning or your spice blend evenly over the meat Stir for one minute so the flavors fully release and coat the beef

Mix in the Pasta and Liquids:

Pour in enchilada sauce the broth and the dry pasta Give everything a really good stir so the noodles are submerged Cover the pan and bring to a boil

Simmer Until Tender:

Once boiling reduce heat to a steady simmer Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom Cook uncovered for fifteen to twenty minutes until the pasta is perfectly tender and most liquid has been absorbed Use the cook time on your pasta as a guide

Add Optional Creaminess and Veggies:

If you’re adding corn or cream cheese stir them in just before the last two minutes of cooking This is when the noodles are almost finished so the extras warm through but do not overcook

Finish with Cheese:

Take the pan off the heat Scatter the shredded cheese on top Let it melt from the residual warmth Stir gently for an extra creamy dish or leave some blankets of gooey cheese on top

Garnish and Serve:

Spoon into bowls and add your favorite toppings like green onions diced tomatoes black olives sour cream or fresh cilantro Serve piping hot

Melty cheese on top is always a winner and the pasta captures every drop of sauce My favorite moment is seeing my kids sneak into the kitchen just to scoop up cheese before dinner is served This dish always sparks laughter and stories at our table

Storage Tips

Scoop leftovers into an airtight container and cool completely before refrigerating This pasta keeps well in the fridge for three days For best reheating gently warm on the stove with a splash of broth to restore creaminess The cheese stays melty and tastes just as good the next day

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter meal Any sturdy pasta works well like penne or fusilli Use whichever cheese your family loves and swap chicken broth for beef if that’s what you have Enchilada sauce can be homemade or store bought but choose your favorite as its flavor shines through

Serving Suggestions

Top each bowl with your favorite fresh garnishes Try diced avocado shredded lettuce or extra hot sauce For a fun family dinner serve with tortilla chips on the side or a crisp green salad to lighten things up My kids love picking their own toppings

Cultural and Historical Context

Enchilada Pasta is a playful blend of Mexican and American comfort foods combining classic enchilada flavors with familiar pasta This dish is all about making weeknights easier while celebrating those bold and lively tastes that everyone loves in a Mexican meal

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I substitute the ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter variation without sacrificing flavor or texture.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Rotini is ideal for capturing sauce, but penne, fusilli, or other short shapes work just as well in this dish.

→ Can I add extra vegetables?

Of course! Sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, black beans, or corn blend well and add nutrition and color.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

To increase heat, add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or use a spicy enchilada sauce when preparing the dish.