Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta

Featured in: Cozy Weeknight Dinners

This dish combines lean ground beef with zesty enchilada sauce and cooked pasta for a warm, satisfying meal. Quick to prepare, the beef is browned with onion and garlic, simmered with the sauce, then mixed with al dente pasta. Topped with melted cheddar and a touch of sour cream, it delivers a comforting blend of flavors perfect for busy evenings. Optional spices and garnishes like cumin, chili powder, cilantro, or jalapeños can enhance the taste and add freshness. Ideal for those seeking a hearty, vibrant main course in under 30 minutes.

Updated on Sun, 23 Nov 2025 10:25:00 GMT
Tender Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta, a one-pot meal with melted cheese and savory sauce. Save
Tender Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta, a one-pot meal with melted cheese and savory sauce. | toastybloom.com

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

  • Lean ground beef: 1 lb (450 g)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping): 1 cup (115 g)
  • Sour cream (for serving): ½ cup (120 g)
  • Penne or rotini pasta: 8 oz (225 g)
  • Onion, diced: 1 medium
  • Garlic, minced: 3 cloves
  • Enchilada sauce: 1 cup (240 ml)

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.
This image shows a delightful bowl of Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta, ready to serve with sour cream. Save
This image shows a delightful bowl of Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta, ready to serve with sour cream. | toastybloom.com

Required Tools

Large skillet, Large pot, Wooden spoon or spatula, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Colander

Allergen Information

Contains Milk (cheese sour cream), Wheat (pasta). May contain Soy (check enchilada sauce), Gluten (pasta and sauce). Always check labels for hidden allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories 550, Total Fat 28 g, Carbohydrates 46 g, Protein 31 g

Creamy cheddar tops this hearty Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner. Save
Creamy cheddar tops this hearty Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner. | toastybloom.com

This dish brings comfort and bold flavors together, making it an easy favorite for any night of the week.

Recipe FAQs

What type of beef works best for this dish?

Lean ground beef is recommended for a balanced flavor and healthy fat content.

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Penne or rotini are ideal, but any short pasta that holds sauce well will work.

How can I add more spice to the dish?

Incorporate ground cumin and chili powder during sautéing or garnish with jalapeños for heat.

Is it possible to substitute the beef?

Yes, ground chicken or turkey can be used for a lighter variation.

What are suggested garnishes for added freshness?

Fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños complement the dish and brighten flavors.

Easy Beef Enchilada Pasta

One-pot dish with ground beef, enchilada sauce, and pasta offering vibrant, comforting flavors.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Time for Cooking
20 minutes
Complete Time
30 minutes
Recipe Creator Grace Miller

Recipe Group Cozy Weeknight Dinners

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type Mexican

Servings Made 4 Portion Count

Dietary Notes None specified

What You Need

Protein & Dairy

01 1 lb lean ground beef
02 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
03 ½ cup sour cream

Pasta

01 8 oz penne or rotini pasta

Vegetables

01 1 medium onion, diced
02 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

01 1 cup enchilada sauce

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 01

Brown the beef: Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Step 02

Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 03

Simmer with sauce: Stir in enchilada sauce and simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 04

Cook pasta: While the sauce simmers, boil pasta in salted water following package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly.

Step 05

Combine pasta and beef mixture: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Stir well to combine and heat through.

Step 06

Serve with toppings: Plate the dish hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Colander

Allergy Details

Look over every item for allergens. If unsure, check with your healthcare provider.
  • Contains milk (cheese, sour cream) and wheat (pasta).
  • May contain soy and gluten depending on enchilada sauce.
  • Always verify labels for hidden allergens.

Nutrition (per portion)

For guidance only: not a replacement for professional medical counsel.
  • Energy (Calories): 550
  • Fats: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 46 g
  • Proteins: 31 g