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–+ servings
Merry

Cheesy Enchilada Pasta Bake is a must-try dish!

This enchilada pasta combines the bold, zesty flavors of your favorite Mexican dish with the comfort of a hearty pasta. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and enchilada sauce, it’s a one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and simple enough for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 10 oz can red enchilada sauce
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
  • Sour cream for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
  2. Stir in diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Season with cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix to combine.
  4. Pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), and chicken broth. Stir well.
  5. Add uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until pasta is tender. Stir occasionally.
  6. Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pan from heat and stir in both shredded cheeses until melted.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Notes

  • You can use ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef.
  • For extra spice, add a diced jalapeño or use spicy enchilada sauce.
  • Monterey Jack can be swapped for pepper jack to kick up the heat.
  • This pasta reheats well and can be made ahead for meal prep.

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