Enchilada Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving something with a bold, zesty kick, then enchilada pasta is the perfect meal for you! This hearty, flavorful dish blends the vibrant spices of enchiladas with the comfort of pasta for a satisfying dinner that everyone will love. From tender pasta to rich enchilada sauce, cheese, and juicy chicken (or your protein of choice), each bite brings the savory goodness of Mexican cuisine to your plate. Ready to dive into the best of both worlds? Keep reading for a detailed recipe, cooking tips, and serving ideas to make this dish a standout hit at your next family dinner or gathering!

this Recipe

What is Enchilada Pasta?

Enchilada pasta is an inventive combination of Italian and Mexican cuisines. It takes the robust flavors of traditional enchiladas—spiced meats, tangy enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and a variety of seasonings—and pairs them with tender pasta, creating a unique and hearty dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal preps. The best part? It’s incredibly customizable, allowing you to tweak ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients List for Enchilada Pasta

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients to make a scrumptious enchilada pasta:

• Pasta (penne, rotini, or any short pasta works best): 12 oz
• Cooked chicken (shredded or diced): 2 cups (or use beef, pork, or a meatless option like black beans)
• Red enchilada sauce: 2 cups (store-bought or homemade)
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 can (10 oz)
• Chicken broth: 1 cup (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): 1 ½ cups
• Black beans (optional): 1 can, drained and rinsed
• Corn kernels: 1 cup (frozen, canned, or fresh)
• Onion: 1 medium, diced
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Taco seasoning: 1 tablespoon
• Cilantro (optional): ¼ cup, chopped
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Sour cream (optional, for garnish)
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best aspects of enchilada pasta is its flexibility. You can substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or what fits your dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Meat alternatives: Swap chicken for ground beef, pork, or turkey. For a vegetarian option, use black beans, pinto beans, or even tofu crumbles.
• Cheese options: While cheddar and Mexican cheese blends work well, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, queso fresco, or even a spicy pepper jack for extra heat.
• Pasta types: Penne, rotini, or bow-tie pasta are great choices, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Gluten-free pasta is also an excellent alternative.
• Enchilada sauce: Red enchilada sauce is traditional, but you can use green enchilada sauce for a tangier, slightly milder flavor.
• Vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Spice level: For a spicier version, use hot enchilada sauce or add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious enchilada pasta:

1. Cook the pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large skillet or deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chicken and seasoning: Stir in the shredded or diced chicken (or your protein of choice) along with the taco seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through and combine the flavors.
4. Pour in the liquids: Add the red enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth to the pan. Stir well to combine everything.
5. Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Incorporate the pasta and extras: Add the cooked pasta, black beans, and corn to the sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the enchilada sauce.
7. Melt the cheese: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy texture throughout the dish.
8. Final touches: Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like cilantro, stir in chopped cilantro for a fresh, zesty finish.

How to Cook Enchilada Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Boil the pasta: Use any short pasta and cook until al dente.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Cook onions and garlic in olive oil to create a flavorful base.
3. Add protein and seasoning: Whether using chicken, beef, or beans, mix it with taco seasoning to add spice.
4. Simmer the sauce: Combine enchilada sauce, tomatoes, and broth, then simmer.
5. Mix everything together: Stir in pasta, beans, corn, and cheese for a delicious blend.
6. Garnish and serve: Top with additional cheese, cilantro, and sour cream for a complete enchilada pasta experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente since it will absorb some sauce as it sits. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
• Using too little sauce: Enchilada pasta should be saucy and flavorful. Don’t skimp on the enchilada sauce and broth mixture, or your pasta may turn out dry.
• Skipping the cheese: The cheese adds creaminess and richness to the dish. If you’re avoiding dairy, consider a dairy-free cheese alternative rather than omitting it entirely.
• Not adjusting the spice level: Taste the sauce as you go to ensure the spice level is to your liking. It’s easier to add more heat than to dial it back after everything is mixed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present enchilada pasta can elevate the dish from a simple dinner to a restaurant-quality meal. Here are some ideas:

• Top with fresh garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro, diced green onions, or sliced jalapeños adds vibrant color and fresh flavor.
• Serve with sides: Pair your enchilada pasta with a crisp green salad, tortilla chips, and guacamole or salsa for a complete meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream: A spoonful of sour cream on top adds creaminess and balances the spiciness.
• Offer lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten the flavors and add a zesty pop.

How to Serve Enchilada Pasta

Serve enchilada pasta as a hearty main dish, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with simple sides like a fresh salad, Mexican rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Enchilada Pasta

For a beautiful presentation, serve enchilada pasta in a large casserole dish, topped with a blanket of melted cheese. Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, and a sprinkle of paprika or chili powder for a pop of color. Serve with lime wedges and sour cream on the side so guests can customize their plates.

Enchilada Pasta Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can prepare enchilada pasta in advance and refrigerate it. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.
• Double the recipe: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Double the ingredients to make a larger batch, and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Add extra veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to boost the nutritional value.
• Use a slow cooker: For a hands-off approach, you can cook this dish in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients except the pasta and cheese, cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in cooked pasta and cheese before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make enchilada pasta ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the dish in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it when ready to serve. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Q: Can I freeze enchilada pasta?
A: Absolutely. Store the cooked pasta in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I use as a vegetarian protein?
A: You can substitute chicken with black beans, pinto beans, or even tofu for a meatless version. Chickpeas or a plant-based meat alternative would also work.

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Yes, gluten-free pasta works just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed to avoid overcooking.

Q: How spicy is enchilada pasta?
A: The spice level can vary depending on the type of enchilada sauce and seasoning you use. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for mild enchilada sauce and skip the extra chili powder.

Conclusion

Enchilada pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the best of Mexican and Italian cuisines. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to your tastes, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Whether you're serving it at a family dinner, prepping it for the week, or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to impress. So go ahead—gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of this cheesy, saucy goodness!

Print