Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal

Name: Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne or elbow); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Author: Lora

Published: May 30, 2025

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Introduction to Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal

Hello there, fellow kitchen warriors! If you’re anything like me—a busy mom or professional juggling a million responsibilities—you know how chaotic dinner time can get. That’s where my Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal swoops in like your culinary superhero! This dish is not just tasty; it’s a lifesaver after a long day. With rich enchilada flavors and hearty pasta, it’s the comfort food that your family will adore, all while being simple and quick. Trust me, you can whip this up in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal

This Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal is everything you could wish for on a busy weeknight. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavors that will make your taste buds sing. Plus, cleanup is a snap since you’re only using one pan! It’s a surefire way to please picky eaters, leaving you both satisfied and relieved at the end of a hectic day.

Ingredients for Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating my Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal. Each component plays a vital role in crafting that irresistible flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:

Olive oil: A staple for cooking, adds richness and helps brown the beef.
Ground beef: This is the heart of the dish, providing protein and all the meaty goodness.
Diced onion: It adds a sweet depth, making the dish aromatic as it cooks.
Minced garlic: This ingredient elevates flavor, bringing a warm, savory touch.
Beef broth: Enhances the savory elements and keeps everything moist and delicious.
Enchilada sauce: The star of the show! It provides that signature enchilada flavor that ties everything together.
Diced tomatoes: They bring acidity and juicy texture, which balances the richness of the beef and sauce.
Uncooked pasta: Penne or elbow shapes work beautifully, soaking up all those fantastic flavors as it cooks.
Shredded cheddar cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, adding a creamy finish and that familiar cheesy pull.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: It adds a lovely layer of flavor and creaminess, making it even cheesier!
Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): This brightens the dish with a fresh note, perfect for garnish.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little kick, adding these can spice things up!

Exact measurements for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, perfect for your next grocery run. Feel free to mix and match based on your tastes! Who said cooking had to be strict?

How to Make Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into creating this delicious Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal. Follow these steps, and soon enough, your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas!

Step 1: Heat the Oil and Brown the Beef

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This olive oil will serve as a base to cook the beef. Once the oil is hot, add in one pound of ground beef. Use a spatula to crumble it as it cooks. You’ll want the beef to be browned completely, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. If necessary, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once your beef is all browned and blissful, it’s time to add flavor! Add in one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves. Stir them well into the beef, letting everything mingle for about 3-4 minutes. The onion should soften and turn translucent, while the garlic releases that heavenly aroma. This step infuses your dish with layers of taste!

Step 3: Combine the Sauces and Broth

Now for the magic touch! Pour in two cups of beef broth, along with a 10-ounce can of enchilada sauce and a 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes (do not drain these!). Give everything a good stir to mix—this is where the flavors start to come together beautifully. Let your mixture come to a gentle simmer. The aroma will be irresistible!

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Next, it’s pasta time! Add in 8 ounces of uncooked penne or elbow pasta. Stir everything again and bring the dish to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Check on your pasta occasionally, stirring it to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs all that delightful sauce.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheeses

When the pasta is tender, it’s time for the cheesy finale! Add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese and half a cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and creates a luscious, gooey coating over your beef and pasta. Trust me, this is the moment you’ll want to savor!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finally, take a moment to admire your hard work. For a pop of freshness, garnish your dish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve the Beef Enchilada Pasta warm, straight from the pan. This dish is not just visually appealing; it’s a cozy one-pan meal that brings comfort to any dinner table!

Tips for Success

Always taste as you go; adjust seasoning to suit your family’s preferences.
If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked ground beef or rotisserie chicken.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor.
Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Save leftovers for a quick lunch; they reheat beautifully!

Equipment Needed

Large skillet: A non-stick skillet is perfect, but any large frying pan will do.
Spatula: Use this for stirring and crumbling the meat.
Cooking spoon: A wooden or silicone spoon works well for mixing.
Measuring cups: For accurate ingredient portions, especially the pasta.
Cover: A lid for your skillet helps with simmering.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or black beans for a heart-healthy version.
Lower-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash in place of pasta for a lighter dish.
Different Sauces: Experiment with green enchilada sauce or salsa verde for a unique twist on flavors.
Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach, corn, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional content and add color.
Cheese Lovers: Mix in pepper jack cheese for a spicier twist or try goat cheese for a creamy touch.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Beef Enchilada Pasta with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing crunch.
Serve with warm tortilla chips and salsa on the side for a festive touch.
A cool glass of iced tea or a light Mexican beer complements the flavors perfectly.
For presentation, sprinkle extra cheese and cilantro on top before serving!

FAQs about Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal

Can I make Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

What can I substitute for ground beef?
For a delightful variation, try ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based options like lentils or black beans for a vegetarian twist!

Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal freezes beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container, and it will stay good for up to three months.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! Feel free to swap penne or elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, like rotini or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust cooking times if necessary.

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re craving more heat, simply add extra red pepper flakes or throw in a diced jalapeño before simmering. Adjust to your spice level, and enjoy the kick!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about making a meal that brings everyone to the table. My Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal is the answer to those hectic nights, combining convenience with mouthwatering flavor. Each bite offers a warm embrace of comfort, making me feel like a culinary hero—even when I’m running on empty! Plus, the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones is priceless. So grab your skillet and get cooking; I promise this dish will soon become a cherished tradition in your home, as it has in mine!