Description
A quick and flavorful 20-minute enchilada pasta dish that combines al dente pasta shells with seasoned ground beef, red enchilada sauce, and melted cheddar cheese for a comforting and cheesy meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups medium pasta shells (uncooked)
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 pound ground beef
Sauce and Cheese
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stove. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat Oil: While the pasta is cooking, add the olive oil to a large skillet on the stove over medium-high heat.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Drain any excess grease from the ground beef, then stir in the enchilada sauce and the cooked pasta shells into the skillet.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, cover the skillet, and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, uncover, and serve the enchilada pasta immediately while hot.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider topping with chopped cilantro or sliced green onions before serving.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein alternative.
- To make this dish vegetarian, omit the ground beef and add beans or sautéed vegetables.
- Homemade enchilada sauce enhances flavor but store-bought sauce works well for convenience.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stove or microwave.
