Pin It A quick and flavorful fusion of classic enchilada flavors with comforting pasta, this one-pot dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Lean ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and melty cheddar cheese come together for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
- Protein & Dairy: 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- Protein & Dairy: 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Protein & Dairy: ½ cup (120 g) sour cream (for serving)
- Pasta: 8 oz (225 g) penne or rotini pasta
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced
- Vegetables: 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Sauce: 1 cup (240 ml) enchilada sauce
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, about 5 7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Step 2:
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3 4 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the enchilada sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Step 4:
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
- Step 5:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Step 6:
- Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
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Pin It Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne or rotini hold sauce well and maintain texture when combined with beef and enchilada sauce.
- → Can I add extra spices for more flavor?
Yes, adding ground cumin and chili powder with the onions enhances the depth and warmth of the dish.
- → How do I ensure the pasta cooks perfectly?
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain well before adding to the skillet to avoid sogginess.
- → Is it possible to swap beef for other proteins?
Ground chicken or turkey are great alternatives for a lighter variation without sacrificing taste.
- → What toppings complement this dish?
Shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream add creaminess, while cilantro or jalapeños provide fresh and spicy notes.