If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that combines the best of Mexican flavors with the ease of pasta, then you absolutely have to try this One Pot Beef Enchilada Pasta Recipe. It’s a delightful fusion of savory ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and tender pasta all cooked together in a single pan. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this dish is packed with vibrant flavors and gooey cheese, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to come back to again and again.

A white bowl filled with three layers of spiral pasta mixed with thick brown meat sauce, showing small bits of green herbs scattered on top, all sitting on a white marbled surface with garlic, cilantro, and cherry tomatoes in the blurred background photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is the secret behind this dish’s amazing taste and texture. Each component has a role, from the juicy ground beef that provides richness to the tangy enchilada sauce that gives the pasta its signature zest. Together, they weave an irresistible combination that’s easy to prepare.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef evenly and adds a subtle fruity note.
1 pound lean ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this meal filling and delicious.
1 medium onion (diced): Adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic warmth and enhances the savory elements.
1 (1 ounce) packet of taco seasoning (2 tablespoons): Infuses the dish with classic Mexican spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
2 ¼ cups dry rotini pasta (8 ounces): Its twisty shape captures the sauce perfectly for every bite.
2 cups water: Necessary for cooking the pasta right in the pan without any extra pots.
2 (10 ounce) cans of red enchilada sauce: Provides bold tomato and chili flavor that defines this dish.
2 cups colby jack cheese (shredded): Melts into creamy goodness that binds all the flavors splendidly.

How to Make One Pot Beef Enchilada Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onion

Start by heating olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Toss in the ground beef and diced onion, letting them cook together for 5 to 7 minutes. You want the beef thoroughly browned with no pink remaining, while the onion softens and starts to caramelize. Once that’s done, carefully drain any excess grease, ensuring your dish stays rich but not greasy.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning

Next, stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Cook everything for 1 to 2 minutes, until the aroma fills your kitchen with warm, spicy notes. This quick step helps bloom the spices so they infuse every bite with bold flavor.

Step 3: Pour in Pasta, Water, and Enchilada Sauce

Now it’s time to add the rotini pasta, water, and both cans of red enchilada sauce straight into the skillet. Give everything a good stir to combine, then bring the mixture up to a gentle boil. The liquid will cook the pasta and marry all the flavors together.

Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta Is Tender

Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, resulting in a thick, saucy texture.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Serve

Finally, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded colby jack cheese on top. Stir gently until the cheese melts into luscious creaminess that coats every spiral of pasta. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect harmony of enchilada-inspired flavors in pasta form!

How to Serve One Pot Beef Enchilada Pasta Recipe

A white round pot filled with one layer of spiral pasta covered in a thick red-brown sauce mixed with cooked ground meat and small onion pieces, topped with melted cheese and green cilantro leaves scattered on top. The pot is set on a white marbled surface surrounded by whole onions, garlic, a bunch of cilantro, vine tomatoes, a white bowl with chopped green herbs, a small bowl of red spices, and a white towel with dark blue stripes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your serving with a handful of fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of creamy sour cream. These garnishes add a pop of color and fresh contrast that balances the rich, spicy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crispy tortilla chips for scooping, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or some roasted vegetables for extra nutrients. Keep the sides light since the pasta itself is so satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the One Pot Beef Enchilada Pasta Recipe in small, individual cast-iron skillets or colorful bowls. You could also top it with avocado slices or drizzle some chipotle crema to elevate the presentation and flavor complexity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your One Pot Beef Enchilada Pasta, portion it out into freezer-safe containers. It’s best consumed within 2 months for peak taste and texture. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it covered to keep the pasta moist and melty.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the sauce, you can substitute it with penne, elbow macaroni, or even fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can swap the beef for plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils. Adding extra spices and maybe some sautéed mushrooms helps maintain that hearty, savory feel.

What if I don’t have red enchilada sauce on hand?

For a quick fix, you can mix tomato sauce with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a little vinegar to mimic enchilada sauce flavors. It won’t be exactly the same but will still taste delicious.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef, or use a spicy enchilada sauce. Just be mindful to adjust according to your preferred heat level.

How do I know when the pasta is perfectly cooked?

Check the pasta by tasting a piece near the end of cooking time. It should be tender but still have a slight bite, not mushy. If it needs more time, continue simmering with a little more water, stirring occasionally.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Beef Enchilada Pasta Recipe truly hits all the right notes: it’s flavorful, easy, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply want a fuss-free dinner that feels special, this dish will bring joy to your table. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your recipe collection you’ll want to make over and over again.

One Pot Beef Enchilada Pasta Recipe