If you're looking for a delicious, comforting meal that combines the bold flavors of enchiladas with the heartiness of pasta, you're in the right place! Enchilada pasta is an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or for impressing guests with a creative fusion recipe. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to whip up a scrumptious plate of enchilada pasta, including ingredients, cooking tips, and serving suggestions. Stick with us as we break down this simple yet satisfying recipe!

What is Enchilada Pasta?
Enchilada pasta is a clever twist on traditional enchiladas, using pasta as the base instead of tortillas. It marries the spicy, savory flavors of enchilada sauce with the comforting texture of pasta, creating a dish that’s bursting with taste while being incredibly easy to prepare. Imagine a creamy, cheesy, slightly spicy sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta, mixed with seasoned meat and beans, then topped with even more cheese. If you love Mexican-inspired flavors but want a break from the usual tacos or burritos, this enchilada pasta recipe is exactly what you need!
Ingredients List for Enchilada Pasta
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients to make the perfect enchilada pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow pasta work well)
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken (you can also use turkey or omit for a vegetarian version)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce (red or green, depending on your preference)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your choice)
- ½ cup sour cream (for added creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredients List for Garnishing (Optional)
Garnishing adds a burst of freshness and color to your enchilada pasta. Here are some optional toppings to elevate the dish:
- Chopped cilantro for a fresh herbaceous note
- Sliced jalapeños for extra heat
- Diced avocado or guacamole for creaminess
- Crumbled tortilla chips for added crunch
- Lime wedges for a zesty finish
- Extra sour cream or hot sauce to taste
Substitutions and Variations
This enchilada pasta recipe is quite versatile, so feel free to make adjustments based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand:
- Protein Substitutes:
- If you prefer poultry, use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and double the beans, or add tofu crumbles or a plant-based ground beef alternative.
- Sauce Variations:
- Try green enchilada sauce for a tangy twist or use a homemade enchilada sauce if you want to control the spice level and ingredients.
- You can also mix in some salsa or hot sauce to increase the heat factor.
- Pasta Options:
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-friendly dish.
- Swap out traditional pasta for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a healthier spin.
- Cheese Choices:
- Any melty cheese works, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a little pepper jack for more spice.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make your enchilada pasta from start to finish.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente texture. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet or pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add your ground beef (or chicken) to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the meat is cooked through, drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Add the taco seasoning to the meat and stir to coat. Then, pour in the enchilada sauce and the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add the Beans and Corn
Stir in the drained black beans and frozen corn. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until everything is heated through. If the sauce looks too thick, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out slightly.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the meat and sauce mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the enchilada sauce. Stir in the sour cream and 1 cup of the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Preheat your oven’s broiler. Transfer the pasta mixture to a casserole dish (if your skillet is oven-safe, you can skip this step). Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top of the pasta. Place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
How to Cook Enchilada Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking enchilada pasta involves a few simple steps that ensure your dish comes out perfect every time:
- Boil the pasta until al dente.
- Sauté the onions and garlic to build flavor.
- Brown the meat and season it thoroughly with taco seasoning.
- Simmer the sauce with enchilada sauce and tomatoes.
- Incorporate the beans and corn for texture and added nutrition.
- Mix the pasta with the sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Broil with cheese for a melty, golden top layer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta al dente because it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce and under the broiler.
- Using too much liquid: If the sauce is too runny, your pasta will become soupy. Make sure to drain the canned ingredients and only add extra liquid (like water or broth) sparingly.
- Not seasoning properly: Don’t forget to taste as you go! If your sauce lacks flavor, a pinch of salt, extra taco seasoning, or even a splash of hot sauce can do wonders.
- Skipping the broil step: The final broiling step adds texture and color to the dish, making it more appetizing and flavorful. Don’t skip it!
Serving and Presentation Tips
Enchilada pasta is a hearty dish, but presentation still matters! Here are some ideas for serving and presenting your enchilada pasta:
How to Serve Enchilada Pasta
- Serve your enchilada pasta hot from the oven. It pairs well with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
- You can also serve it with some warm tortillas or garlic bread for dipping into the extra sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Enchilada Pasta
- Garnish the top with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their portion, adding a bright and tangy kick.
- For a bit of crunch, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions on top just before serving.
Enchilada Pasta Recipe Tips
- Pre-cook your ingredients: To save time, cook your pasta and brown your meat simultaneously.
- Double the recipe: This dish reheats well, so feel free to double the batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- Use a mix of cheeses: Using multiple types of cheese will give your enchilada pasta a more complex flavor profile.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more diced jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce if you love spicy food!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake it in the oven until heated through, then broil the top with cheese.
Q: Can I freeze enchilada pasta?
A: Absolutely. You can freeze it after assembling the pasta and sauce mixture (before broiling). Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven, adding the cheese topping just before serving.
Q: Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
A: Simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and make sure your taco seasoning and enchilada sauce are gluten-free.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Conclusion
Enchilada pasta is a fun and flavorful fusion dish that combines the best of two comforting classics: pasta and enchiladas. This recipe is perfect for when you want a quick yet hearty dinner that’s sure to please the whole family. With just a few easy steps and common ingredients, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to customize it to suit your tastes. Enjoy your enchilada pasta and get ready to impress your taste buds!
PrintEnchilada Pasta Recipe
This enchilada pasta recipe blends zesty enchilada sauce with pasta for a hearty, flavorful dish. It's an easy one-pot meal packed with bold Mexican flavors, perfect for weeknights. Try this fusion of comfort food and classic enchiladas today!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Pasta (penne or rotini)
- Enchilada sauce
- Ground beef or chicken
- Onion
- Bell peppers
- Black beans
- Corn
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Taco seasoning
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Salt & pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil, add garlic, onion, and bell peppers. Sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef or chicken and taco seasoning, cook until browned.
- Stir in black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan, mix well, and top with shredded cheese.
- Let the cheese melt, then serve warm.
Notes
You can substitute ground meat with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. Adjust spice levels to taste with extra chili powder or hot sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Leave a Reply