Craving the bold, spicy flavors of beef enchiladas but short on time? This Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal Recipe is the ultimate solution—all the taste of traditional enchiladas with half the effort! Imagine tender pasta smothered in a rich, smoky enchilada sauce, loaded with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings—all cooked in just one pan for minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just need a quick, satisfying dinner, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
What makes this recipe a weeknight hero is its brilliant simplicity. By combining pasta and enchilada ingredients in a single skillet, you get a hearty, all-in-one meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. No rolling tortillas, no layering—just browned beef, al dente pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s irresistibly addictive. Plus, it’s highly customizable—swap the beef for ground turkey, add extra veggies, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. This is comfort food at its finest: cheesy, saucy, and packed with Tex-Mex flavor!
What Makes “Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal Recipe” Special?
This dish is a game-changer because it reinvents classic enchiladas into a quick, one-pan pasta dish—no oven required! The enchilada sauce-infused pasta absorbs all the smoky, tangy flavors, while the ground beef adds protein-rich heartiness. Unlike traditional enchiladas, which can be time-consuming, this version is ready in minutes and requires just one skillet, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Another standout feature? The melty cheese factor. A generous layer of Monterey Jack and cheddar melts into the pasta, creating a gooey, stretchy texture that’s downright irresistible. And because it’s a one-pan meal, cleanup is a breeze—no stacks of dishes, no multiple pots. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style dinner, or pack leftovers for lunch (they reheat beautifully!). Whether you’re a Mexican food lover, pasta addict, or just someone who craves easy comfort food, this recipe is a must-try.
Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal Recipe – Easy, Cheesy Comfort Food!
5
servings10
minutes20
minutes420
kcalIngredients for Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal Recipe
For the Beef & Pasta:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp taco seasoning
1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
1 cup beef or chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream or sour cream
- For the Cheese & Toppings:
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
¼ cup chopped cilantro
Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, jalapeños, lime wedges
Directions for Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal Recipe
- Brown the Beef & Aromatics
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned (5-6 minutes). Drain excess fat, then add onion, garlic, and taco seasoning. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Pasta & Liquids
Stir in the uncooked pasta, enchilada sauce, and broth, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes (or until pasta is al dente).
- Stir in Cream & Cheese
Once the pasta is tender, stir in heavy cream (or sour cream) for richness. Sprinkle cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top, then cover and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Broil for a Golden Crust (Optional)
For a bubbly, slightly crispy top, place the skillet under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning!
- Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
What to Serve with Beef Enchilada Pasta
- Warm tortilla chips (for scooping up extra sauce)
- Mexican street corn salad (for a creamy, crunchy contrast)
- Simple green salad with lime dressing (to balance the richness)
- Refried beans (for a classic Tex-Mex side)
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts
This Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal Recipe is the perfect marriage of Mexican flavors and easy pasta comfort—quick, cheesy, and packed with bold taste. It’s ideal for busy nights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The one-pan method means less cleanup, while the gooey cheese and spicy beef ensure every bite is satisfying. Whether you love enchiladas, pasta, or just crave hearty meals, this dish is a guaranteed winner!
