If you love the rich, bold flavors of enchiladas but also crave the comfort of a pasta dish, then this enchilada pasta recipe is perfect for you! Combining the best of both Mexican and Italian cuisines, this recipe offers a creamy, cheesy, and spicy dish that is sure to be a family favorite. Keep reading to learn how to make this easy, one-pot enchilada pasta that will become a go-to dinner in your household. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, you'll love this recipe's simplicity and versatility. Don't miss out on our tips and tricks to make it your own!

What is "Enchilada Pasta"?
Enchilada pasta is a delicious fusion dish that brings together two culinary worlds. The Mexican enchilada, typically made with tortillas, cheese, and a rich sauce, is reimagined with pasta as the base. Enchilada pasta combines the flavors of a classic enchilada sauce with the hearty texture of pasta for a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Imagine all the spicy, savory goodness of enchiladas combined with the creamy, satisfying texture of pasta—it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or even casual gatherings.
Ingredients List for Enchilada Pasta
To make this savory and satisfying enchilada pasta, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef (can substitute with ground chicken or turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional, any color will work)
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- ½ cup sour cream (for creaminess)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Sliced jalapeños (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient List for the Garnish and Toppings
While the main ingredients create a flavorful base, the garnishes and toppings make your enchilada pasta stand out even more. Here are some extra ingredients to add a burst of freshness or heat:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños (if you like it spicy)
- Chopped green onions
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy topping
- A squeeze of lime for a zesty kick
These toppings are optional, but they add extra texture and flavor, making the enchilada pasta even more exciting.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this enchilada pasta recipe is how versatile it is. If you want to switch up ingredients to cater to dietary preferences or what you have on hand, here are some ideas:
- Meat substitutions: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese options: If you don't have cheddar or Monterey Jack, any melty cheese like mozzarella or even pepper jack can be substituted.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the meat entirely and add more beans or vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach, to keep it hearty.
- Pasta alternatives: Gluten-free pasta works just as well, or try whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Heat level: Adjust the heat by using mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce. You can also add more chili powder or diced jalapeños for extra spice.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking enchilada pasta is incredibly easy and can be done in just a few simple steps:
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta once it’s al dente and set it aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (or your preferred meat) to the skillet and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix in the Sauce and Broth: Pour in the enchilada sauce and chicken broth, then stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Add Beans and Corn: Stir in the black beans and corn. Let the mixture heat through for another 2 minutes.
- Combine the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir everything together until well combined.
- Add Cheese and Sour Cream: Stir in the shredded cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and any other desired toppings.
How to Cook Enchilada Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Boil the Pasta: Follow the instructions on your pasta package for al dente cooking. Ensure you salt the water well for added flavor.
- Brown the Meat: Using a large skillet, brown your ground beef or alternative protein.
- Season the Meat: Once browned, season it with cumin, chili powder, and paprika for that classic enchilada flavor.
- Add Aromatics and Veggies: Incorporate the onion, garlic, and bell pepper for an aromatic base.
- Stir in the Sauce: Add your enchilada sauce and chicken broth for a rich, savory flavor.
- Add Beans and Corn: These add heartiness and texture to the dish.
- Incorporate Pasta and Cheese: Finally, mix everything together with cheese and sour cream for a creamy finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Not Draining Excess Fat: If using ground beef, be sure to drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.
- Skimping on Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. You can always add more spice or salt to suit your preference.
- Skipping the Garnishes: Fresh toppings like cilantro, jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime really elevate the dish.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Enchilada pasta is a one-pot wonder, but with a few extra touches, you can make it look just as good as it tastes. Here’s how to serve and present it beautifully:
- Family Style: Serve the pasta in a large skillet or pot, placing it directly on the dinner table for an inviting family-style meal.
- Individual Portions: Plate the pasta in bowls or on plates, then top each serving with a handful of cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a few slices of avocado.
- Tortilla Chips: Crumble a handful of tortilla chips on top for a crunchy texture.
- Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their pasta.
Presentation Ideas for Enchilada Pasta
- Cast Iron Skillet: Presenting your enchilada pasta in a cast iron skillet gives it a rustic, homestyle feel.
- Colorful Plates: Serve your dish on bright, colorful plates to match the vibrant flavors of the enchilada sauce.
- Cheese Pulls: For an Instagram-worthy moment, sprinkle extra cheese on top before serving and let it melt into gooey goodness.
Enchilada Pasta Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prep the enchilada sauce and cook the meat ahead of time, saving you time when you’re ready to assemble the dish.
- Reheat Gently: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the pasta has absorbed too much liquid.
- Freezing: Enchilada pasta freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months, then reheat with some added broth or water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and add more beans or vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
2. Can I use green enchilada sauce?
Yes, you can swap out red enchilada sauce for green if you prefer its tangier flavor.
3. How long do leftovers last?
Leftover enchilada pasta can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
4. What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well, as they hold the sauce better.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free pasta and ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.
Conclusion
Enchilada pasta is a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to satisfy your craving for both pasta and Mexican flavors. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. With its cheesy, saucy goodness and endless options for variation, this fusion dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious combination of enchiladas and pasta in one bowl!
PrintEnchilada Pasta Recipe
This enchilada pasta recipe is a perfect fusion of Mexican and Italian flavors. Combining enchilada sauce, pasta, black beans, and cheese, it’s an easy, hearty dish. Great for weeknights, this one-pot meal is flavorful and filling, perfect for the whole family.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Italian Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Pasta (penne or rotini)
- Enchilada sauce
- Ground beef or chicken (optional)
- Black beans
- Corn
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese
- Onion
- Garlic
- Taco seasoning
- Olive oil
- Cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and onion.
- Add ground beef or chicken if using, and cook until browned.
- Stir in taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Let it simmer.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and top with shredded cheese.
- Let the cheese melt and garnish with cilantro before serving.
Notes
- You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the meat and using veggie broth.
- Customize with your choice of toppings like sour cream or avocado.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
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