Description
A quick and flavorful 20-minute enchilada pasta recipe featuring tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, aromatic onions and garlic, all tossed in rich red enchilada sauce and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that combines the zest of enchiladas with the convenience of pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups medium pasta shells (uncooked)
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 pound ground beef
Sauce & Cheese
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 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 according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Drain Grease: Remove excess grease from the cooked ground beef to ensure a less oily dish.
- Add Sauce and Pasta: Pour in the red enchilada sauce and add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Melt Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet contents. Cover and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes over low heat.
- Serve: Remove from heat, uncover, and serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use your favorite brand or homemade red enchilada sauce for best flavor.
- To add extra veggies, consider adding diced bell peppers or corn in step 2.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper when cooking the beef.
- This meal pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
