Enchilada Pasta (ONE Skillet!)

Looking for a delicious and hearty meal that comes together in a single skillet? Look no further! Enchilada Pasta (ONE Skillet!) is here to delight your taste buds and simplify your dinner routine. This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the comforting aspects of pasta and the zesty flair of enchiladas. With its vibrant colors and satisfying textures, this recipe is not only a feast for the palate but also a joy to make. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible dish that is sure to become a family favorite.

Top Reasons to Make Enchilada Pasta (ONE Skillet!)

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax afterwards.
• Flavorful and Filling: The combination of enchilada sauce, pasta, and toppings delivers a satisfying meal.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients and toppings to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Kid-Friendly: With its familiar pasta shape and delicious flavors, this dish is sure to please even picky eaters.

Ingredient List

• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, not drained
• 10 ounces mild red enchilada sauce
• 2 cups medium shells pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (1-ounce) batch taco seasoning
• 15.5 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1-1/2 cups frozen corn or 1 can, drained
• 1 cup thinly sliced mini bell peppers or 1 regular pepper, diced
• 1-1/2 cups rotisserie chicken, diced into small pieces
• 3/4 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• Toppings as desired (sour cream, cilantro, avocado, etc.)

Prep & Cook Tools

• Skillet: A large, deep skillet is essential for cooking the pasta and ingredients together.
• Measuring Cups: For accurately measuring your ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and mixing everything in the skillet.
• Knife & Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and chicken.

Enchilada Pasta (ONE Skillet!): From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Begin by assembling all your ingredients. Having everything on hand will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In your large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mini bell peppers and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 3: Add the Base Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), mild red enchilada sauce, chicken broth, and taco seasoning. Bring this mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Once the mixture is simmering, add the medium shells pasta to the skillet. Stir well to combine and ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add the Beans and Corn

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the drained black beans and frozen corn. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Incorporate the Chicken

Gently fold in the diced rotisserie chicken, allowing it to warm in the skillet for another 2 minutes.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle the freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully.

Step 8: Serve and Top

Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Enchilada Pasta hot. Top with your favorite toppings like sour cream, fresh cilantro, or avocado for an extra burst of flavor.

Tailor It to Your Diet

• Vegetarian: Replace the rotisserie chicken with sautéed mushrooms or additional beans.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
• Spicy: Add jalapeños or use a spicy enchilada sauce for a kick!

Author’s Commentary

This Enchilada Pasta (ONE Skillet!) is a game-changer in our household! I love how easy it is to make, and the flavor is just incredible. It’s one of those meals that everyone can enjoy, and it’s so versatile—you can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that requires minimal cleanup? I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own!

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the pasta.

Enchilada Pasta (ONE Skillet!) FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While medium shells work beautifully, you can substitute with any short pasta such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

Is this recipe spicy?

This version is mild due to the use of mild red enchilada sauce. If you prefer more heat, feel free to use a spicier sauce or add fresh jalapeños.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the rotisserie chicken and consider adding more beans or vegetables to keep it hearty and satisfying.

What toppings do you suggest?

Some great toppings include sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, diced green onions, or even crushed tortilla chips for some crunch!

Try These Next

• Taco Bowl
• Creamy Chicken Pasta
• Vegetable Stir Fry
• One Pot Chili

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you have the recipe for Enchilada Pasta (ONE Skillet!) in your back pocket, it’s time to gather your loved ones and enjoy this vibrant and hearty dish. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this meal is sure to impress and satisfy. So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite of this delightful dish!