Description
This Enchilada Pasta combines the bold flavors of classic enchiladas with the comfort of a creamy pasta dish. Packed with tender chicken, beans, corn, and a rich, zesty sauce, it’s a family-friendly meal that comes together quickly on a busy weeknight. It’s deliciously hearty and perfect for satisfying Tex-Mex cravings all in one pot!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Pasta & Protein
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great)
Vegetables & Beans
- 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 small onion, diced
Sauce
- 1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce (mild or medium)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Sliced green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Sautรฉ the Vegetables:
In the same pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3โ4 minutes until softened and fragrant. - Combine Sauce Ingredients:
Add the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 2โ3 minutes to blend the flavors. - Add Chicken, Beans, and Corn:
Mix in the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Simmer for another 2 minutes to heat everything through. - Stir in Sour Cream:
Reduce the heat to low. Add the sour cream and gently stir until the sauce looks creamy and smooth. Avoid boiling after sour cream is added to prevent curdling. - Combine with Pasta and Cheese:
Return the cooked pasta to the pot. Toss everything together so the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Sprinkle in 1 cup of the shredded cheese, stirring until melted. - Top and Serve:
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover and let stand for 2โ3 minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with cilantro and green onions, if using, and serve hot!
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef or turkey for the chicken, browning it before adding the onions.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra beans or sautรฉed veggies.
- Enchilada sauce heat can be adjusted based on your preference (mild, medium, or hot).
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeรฑos for extra flavor and a spicy kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 55mg