Name: Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
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, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Imagine a dish that combines the bold flavors of enchiladas with the creamy comfort of pasta—all cooked together in one pan. This Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal is your answer to a hearty, delicious dinner that’s ready in no time. The savory beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and tender pasta come together in a rich, cheesy finish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, requiring minimal cleanup and delivering maximum flavor. With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite for your family.

Ingredients

What You’ll Need

To whip up this flavor-packed meal, you’ll need the following simple and accessible ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds a touch of richness and helps brown the beef.
1 lb ground beef – The heart of the dish, offering a savory, protein-packed base.
1 onion, diced – Brings a subtle sweetness and texture to the mix.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Adds a robust, aromatic flavor that complements the beef.
2 cups beef broth – Infuses the dish with depth and keeps the pasta tender.
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce – Provides bold, spicy flavors reminiscent of traditional enchiladas.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds acidity and juiciness to balance the dish.
8 oz uncooked pasta (penne or elbow) – Acts as the perfect vehicle to soak up all the rich flavors.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into a creamy, tangy layer of deliciousness.
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – Adds a creamy, mild counterpoint to the cheddar.
Optional:
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro – A bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes – For those who enjoy an extra kick of heat.

Substitutions and Additions

One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to make it your own with these easy swaps and creative additions:

Swap the beef: Prefer lighter meats? Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Go green: Replace enchilada sauce with salsa verde for a tangy twist.
Amp up the veggies: Add diced bell peppers, black beans, or even corn for extra texture and flavor.
Customize the heat: Toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce if you like it spicy.

This flexibility makes the recipe perfect for accommodating dietary preferences or simply experimenting with your pantry staples.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking this delightful Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to create a dish bursting with bold flavors and creamy textures that everyone will love.

Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, spend a few moments getting everything ready. Preparation makes the process smooth and enjoyable:

Gather all the ingredients and measure them out. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Set up your workspace by placing a large, deep skillet or pot on the stove. This will be your all-in-one cooking vessel, minimizing cleanup and simplifying the process.

With everything within reach, you’re ready to get started on this one-pan wonder.

Cooking Process

Here’s where the magic begins! In just a few simple steps, your skillet will transform into a vessel of cheesy, savory perfection.

Brown the Beef (5 minutes):
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through.
- Drain any excess grease to keep the dish light and flavorful.
Soften the Aromatics (3 minutes):
- Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently.
- Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, infusing the dish with savory depth.
Build the Sauce (2 minutes):
- Pour in the beef broth, enchilada sauce, and diced tomatoes (don’t drain the tomatoes; their juices are essential for the sauce).
- Stir everything together, ensuring the flavors are well combined.
Cook the Pasta (15–20 minutes):
- Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet.
- Let the pasta simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As it cooks, it will absorb the rich flavors of the sauce, becoming tender and infused with deliciousness.

By now, your kitchen will be filled with the tantalizing aroma of enchilada sauce mingling with savory beef and spices.

Final Steps

The finishing touches are where the dish transforms into a cheesy masterpiece:

Add the Cheese (2–3 minutes):
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of Monterey Jack cheese.
- Watch as the cheeses melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, velvety consistency that clings to every bite.
Season and Garnish:
- For a hint of heat, sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional).
- Finish by garnishing with fresh cilantro, adding a pop of color and brightness to the dish.

And just like that, your Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal is ready to be served!

Serving Suggestions

Occasions and Pairings

This dish shines in any casual setting, making it perfect for:

Weeknight Dinners: Quick, comforting, and satisfying after a busy day.
Potlucks or Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to transport and serve.
Family Nights: Its bold flavors and cheesy goodness appeal to all ages.

To round out the meal, consider pairing it with:

A crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Crunchy tortilla chips for a fun, dippable side.
Garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that cheesy sauce.

Presentation Ideas

Make your meal look as good as it tastes with these tips:

Serve the pasta directly in the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation. The bubbling cheese and vibrant sauce will be the star of the table.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and an extra sprinkle of cheddar cheese for a burst of color and appeal.
Use colorful plates or bowls to enhance the festive, hearty vibe of the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that checks all the boxes—easy, delicious, and a crowd-pleaser—this Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal is it. Imagine the bold, cheesy flavors of your favorite enchiladas, paired with the comforting heartiness of pasta, all brought together in one simple skillet. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:

One-Pan Convenience: Say goodbye to piles of dishes. This meal is prepared entirely in one skillet, saving you time and effort on cleanup.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: With layers of savory beef, creamy cheese, and the zesty kick of enchilada sauce, it’s a dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, this recipe is straightforward and nearly foolproof. With simple steps and basic ingredients, you can’t go wrong.

It’s the perfect balance of convenience and flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again.

Recipe FAQ

Cooking Tips

To ensure perfect results every time, keep these tips in mind:

Prevent Pasta from Sticking: Stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to avoid it sticking to the bottom of the skillet. This also ensures it cooks evenly and absorbs the rich sauce.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of beef broth to loosen it. This will maintain a creamy texture without compromising flavor.

These small adjustments can make a big difference in the final dish, ensuring it’s as delicious as it is easy to make.

Troubleshooting

Don’t worry if things don’t go perfectly the first time. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues:

Overcooked Pasta: If your pasta turns out too soft, reduce the cooking time slightly and check for doneness earlier.
Sauce Too Thick: A thick sauce can be thinned by stirring in a bit of broth or water.
Burnt Edges: If the sauce or pasta starts to stick and burn, lower the heat and stir more frequently to prevent this.

With these tips, you’ll be able to troubleshoot and adjust as needed to make the recipe work perfectly every time.

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips

This dish is just as tasty the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store it:

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even more delicious the next day.

Reheating Instructions

To enjoy this dish again, simply:

Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to restore the creaminess. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warm.
Stovetop: Place the leftovers in a skillet with a small amount of broth or water. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently, until warmed through.

Reheating is a breeze, ensuring you can savor every last bite of this comforting meal.

Related Recipes:

If you loved this Beef Enchilada Pasta recipe, you might enjoy these other hearty meals from Creatives Cookery:

Steak and Pasta Recipes: Explore rich, satisfying steak and pasta combinations.
Delicious Mississippi Mud Potatoes: A creamy, cheesy side dish perfect for family dinners.
Cornbread Mexican Casserole: A bold and filling casserole with Mexican-inspired flavors.
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Another easy one-pan meal for busy weeknights.
Taco Lasagna with Tortillas: A layered, cheesy masterpiece for taco lovers.

Conclusion

This Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal is everything you could want in a weeknight dinner: quick, flavorful, and family-approved. The combination of savory beef, cheesy pasta, and zesty enchilada sauce delivers a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, with just one pan to clean, it’s as practical as it is delicious.

So why not give it a try? Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a no-fuss dinner option, this recipe is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal in no time.