If you love the bold, comforting flavors of Mexican cuisine but crave something a bit quicker and heartier, then you are going to adore this Enchilada Pasta. It perfectly blends the zesty, smoky notes of enchilada sauce with tender pasta and a satisfying mix of seasoned ground meat, beans, and corn. This dish turns the traditional enchilada experience into a cozy, one-pot wonder that’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Every bite bursts with flavor, cheesy goodness, and just the right amount of spice to make your taste buds do a happy dance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Enchilada Pasta lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create a symphony of texture and taste. Each component plays a crucial role, from the pasta providing a hearty base to the enchilada sauce delivering that signature tangy kick. Fresh and pantry staples alike make this dish as accessible as it is delicious.

12 oz penne pasta: A sturdy pasta shape that holds the sauce beautifully and adds bite to every forkful.

1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing, giving a subtle fruitiness to the base flavors.
1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the savory components.

2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that enhances the overall aroma.
1 pound ground beef (or turkey): The protein that makes this meal filling and comforting.

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds fiber, texture, and an earthy touch.
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: The heart of the dish, imparting classic Mexican flavor and zest.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides warmth and a gentle heat.

1 teaspoon cumin: Adds a smoky, slightly nutty undertone that complements the chili.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten flavors.
1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned): Offers a touch of sweetness and pop of color.

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: For topping and mixing in to create that luscious, melty finish.
Fresh cilantro, chopped: A fresh garnish that adds brightness and herbal lift.
Salsa: Perfect on the side for an extra punch of lively flavor.

How to Make Enchilada Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the penne pasta in salted water until it’s perfectly al dente, following the package instructions. This step sets the stage for your flavors to blend perfectly, making sure the pasta holds up well with the saucy goodness coming later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. This fragrant base elevates the entire Enchilada Pasta by layering flavors right from the start.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Add your ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it brown thoroughly, about 6 to 8 minutes, until there’s no pink left. This step ensures every bite will have a wonderfully rich, savory depth that anchors the dish.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Now stir in the black beans, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, and corn. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can mingle and intensify while thickening the sauce just right.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Drain your pasta and add it directly into the skillet with the meat and sauce mixture. Stir everything together carefully so that each piece of pasta is generously coated with the rich enchilada flavors. This step marries the heartiness of pasta with the zest of classic enchiladas perfectly.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and stir until it melts into the mixture, creating a creamy, cheesy embrace. For an extra indulgent twist, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, remove from heat and give your Enchilada Pasta a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve it hot alongside a bowl of your favorite salsa, ready to enjoy a vibrant, satisfying meal.

How to Serve Enchilada Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro chopped over the top brightens the dish and adds a burst of herbal freshness that cuts through the richness. You can also try adding thinly sliced green onions or a dollop of sour cream for an extra cooling touch.

Side Dishes

A simple side salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado pairs beautifully, balancing the hearty pasta with light, fresh flavors. Mexican street corn or tortilla chips with guacamole also make excellent companions, keeping your meal vibrant and festive.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Enchilada Pasta in individual ramekins topped with a scoop of guacamole and a sprinkle of queso fresco. Or try layering it in a casserole dish with alternating cheese and sauce layers before baking for a lasagna-style experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Enchilada Pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic meal prep option for busy weekdays.

Freezing

You can freeze the pasta in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that fresh garnishes like cilantro are best added after reheating for maximum flavor and vibrancy.

Reheating

When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 1-minute intervals to avoid drying out the dish. Adding a splash of water or broth helps keep it nice and saucy.

FAQs

Can I make Enchilada Pasta vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply skip the ground meat and add extra beans, diced vegetables, or a plant-based meat substitute. The enchilada sauce and spices keep it flavorful and satisfying.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this recipe because of its flavor and meltability, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend for different twists.

Is Enchilada Pasta spicy?

The spice level is mild to moderate thanks to the chili powder and enchilada sauce, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili powder, chopped jalapeños, or hot sauce if you like things a bit fiery.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Of course! Penne is ideal because it holds sauce well, but rotini, fusilli, or rigatoni would all work wonderfully and add their own unique texture to the dish.

How long does it take to make this dish?

From start to finish, Enchilada Pasta usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes, making it a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting and satisfying about the way Enchilada Pasta brings together the best of two worlds — hearty pasta and bold Mexican flavors in one bowl. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to relax, indulge, and savor every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite that you turn to again and again.

Enchilada Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 17 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

This flavorful Enchilada Pasta combines the best of Tex-Mex and Italian cuisines by mixing hearty penne pasta with a savory enchilada sauce, ground beef, black beans, and corn, all topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies cravings with minimal effort.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prepare the rest of the dish.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

Cook the Ground Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.
Add Beans, Sauce, and Spices: Stir in the black beans, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, and corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir well until the pasta is evenly coated with the meat and sauce mixture.

Melt Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture and stir until the cheese melts and blends well. For an optional baked version, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve the enchilada pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and salsa on the side for an added burst of flavor.

Notes

Ground turkey can be used instead of ground beef for a leaner option.

Frozen corn can be substituted with canned corn; just drain it well.
For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or extra chili powder.
Make it gluten free by using gluten-free pasta.

Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Optional baking step adds a lovely cheesy crust if you have extra time.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Boiling, Simmering

Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 420

Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 17g

Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g

Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 25g

Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: enchilada pasta, Tex-Mex pasta, ground beef pasta, cheesy enchilada pasta, quick dinner recipes