Hey there, pasta lover! If you’re looking to add some excitement to your dinner routine, you’ve got to try enchilada pasta! I first made this dish on a whim, wanting to combine two of my favorite comfort foods—pasta and enchiladas—and let me tell you, it was a total hit! This dish is bursting with flavors from zesty enchilada sauce, tender pasta, and gooey cheese. It’s super easy to make, and you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re in the mood for a comforting, cheesy casserole, let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love Enchilada Pasta:
Enchilada pasta is the ultimate fusion of flavors that brings together the savory, spiced goodness of enchiladas with the heartiness of pasta. This dish is not only scrumptious, but it’s also incredibly versatile! You can customize it by adding your favorite proteins, veggies, or even beans to make it your own. Plus, the cheesy topping gets bubbly and golden in the oven, making it impossible to resist. Seriously, who wouldn’t love a big helping of cheesy, saucy pasta?
Nutritional Benefits:
While this dish is definitely indulgent, it offers a good balance of nutrients, especially if you add in some veggies or lean proteins. Here are some benefits:
- Protein Packed: Depending on the protein you add—like chicken, turkey, or beans—you’ll get a nice boost of protein to keep you full and satisfied.
- Veggie Loaded: Mix in colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added vitamins and minerals.
- Whole Grain Option: Use whole grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber to make this dish even more nutritious!
Fun Variations to Try:
One of the best things about enchilada pasta is how customizable it can be! Here are a few variations I love:
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap out meat for black beans or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option. You can also add extra veggies into the mix!
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or use a spicy enchilada sauce for an extra kick!
- Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different types of cheese—try pepper jack for a little spice or cotija for a unique flavor twist.
Enchilada Pasta Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef, turkey, or chicken (or use a vegetarian protein)
- 1 (10 oz) can of enchilada sauce (mild or spicy)
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, in a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat. Add diced onion and bell peppers, cooking until tender—about 5-7 minutes. If you’re using taco seasoning, add it in now, stirring to combine.
- Once the meat and veggies are cooked, stir in the enchilada sauce and corn. Bring the mixture to a simmer for a few minutes to enhance the flavors.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat and sauce mixture. Toss until everything is well coated and combined.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top evenly with the shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh cilantro if you like. Serve warm and dig in!
Practical & Valuable Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven to heat it when you’re ready to serve!
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta may soak up some sauce, making it even more flavorful when reheated.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this enchilada pasta with a fresh side salad or some tortilla chips for a complete meal!
Get Inspired On Pinterest!
I can’t wait for you to try this delicious enchilada pasta! It’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Let me know how it turned out and if you added any fun twists of your own! For more amazing recipes and cooking inspiration, be sure to follow me on Pinterest. Happy cooking!