Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Mealvv
Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Meal
Introduction
Welcome to a delicious and satisfying recipe for Beef Enchilada Pasta! This one-pan meal combines the flavors of savory beef, spicy enchilada sauce, and comforting pasta into a mouthwatering dish that the whole family will love. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or simply looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Beef enchilada pasta is a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican enchiladas and classic Italian pasta. It brings together the best of both worlds, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish that will leave you craving for more. The combination of tender beef, rich enchilada sauce, and al dente pasta creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that is truly irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this beef enchilada pasta recipe stands out:
1. Easy to make: With just one pan, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and satisfying.
2. Bursting with flavor: The combination of seasoned beef, enchilada sauce, and spices creates a robust and mouthwatering taste experience that will have you coming back for seconds.
3. Versatile: This recipe allows for customization and personalization. You can easily adjust the spice level, add extra vegetables, or even incorporate different types of pasta to suit your preferences.
4. Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish. It’s a great way to introduce Mexican flavors to picky eaters or satisfy the cravings of those who love both Mexican and Italian cuisines.
Ingredients
For this beef enchilada pasta recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 ounces) enchilada sauce
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces penne pasta
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Optional ingredient substitutions:
– Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef.
– If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a diced jalapeno pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
– Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend.
– Gluten-free pasta can be substituted for regular penne pasta if desired.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious beef enchilada pasta:
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Cook until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
Step 2: Add the Sauce and Spices
Pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Add the Pasta
Add the penne pasta to the skillet and stir until it is fully coated with the sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef enchilada pasta. Cover the skillet once again and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is gooey.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the beef enchilada pasta hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your beef enchilada pasta turns out delicious:
– Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the dish.
– Don’t overcook the pasta in the sauce initially, as it will continue to soften while it sits.
– If the sauce becomes too thick during cooking, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out.
– For an extra kick of flavor, sprinkle some additional spices such as paprika or oregano over the dish before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this beef enchilada pasta your own. Here are some ideas:
– Vegetarian option: Skip the meat altogether and replace it with your favorite vegetables, such as diced zucchini, mushrooms, or corn.
– Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your enchilada sauce and beef broth are also gluten-free.
– Spice it up: Add diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
– Cheese lovers: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This beef enchilada pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience by serving it with some delicious accompaniments:
– Fresh salad: Pair the pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
– Garlic bread: Toast some slices of crusty bread and spread them with garlic butter for a tasty side.
– Mexican rice: Serve the beef enchilada pasta alongside a flavorful Mexican rice dish for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the beef enchilada pasta in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Allow the leftover beef enchilada pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes. Rotini, bowtie, or macaroni would all work well in this recipe.
Final Thoughts
Beef Enchilada Pasta is a delightful fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines. It’s a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this one-pan meal is a winner. So grab your skillet, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying plate of beef enchilada pasta!
Beef Enchilada Pasta One-Pan Mealvv
A delightful fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines, this Beef Enchilada Pasta is a one-pan meal that combines the flavors of savory beef, spicy enchilada sauce, and comforting pasta. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this dish is versatile, family-friendly, and sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 ounces) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Directions
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Step 1: Cook the Beef. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Cook until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
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Step 2: Add the Sauce and Spices. Pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Step 3: Add the Pasta. Add the penne pasta to the skillet and stir until it is fully coated with the sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
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Step 4: Top with Cheese. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef enchilada pasta. Cover the skillet once again and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is gooey.
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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the beef enchilada pasta hot and enjoy!