Cheesy Enchilada Hamburger

This cheesy enchilada hamburger helper is a hearty, comforting meal that combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and creamy Colby Jack cheese, all simmered in flavorful enchilada sauce with warming spices. Perfect for weeknights when you want something filling without a lot of fuss, this onepan dish comes together quickly and leaves minimal cleanup behind.

My family lights up every time this hits the table and it's become a Friday night ritual. I first threw this together when I had some ground beef to stretch and instantly knew it was a keeper.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: one pound for juicy flavor Choose eighty five percent lean for the best balance of richness and taste
• Chopped onion: adds sweetness and depth Select firm onions with no green sprouting for best freshness
• Beef broth: one cup deepens the savory flavor Use low sodium to control salt level
• Milk: one cup brings creaminess Whole milk works best but two percent is fine too
• Medium shell pasta: two and a half cups holds sauce beautifully Pick a good quality pasta for perfect texture
• Mild enchilada sauce: two ten ounce cans defines the dish flavor Use your favorite brand or homemade for best taste
• Salt and pepper: half teaspoon each enhances all flavors
• Chili powder: two teaspoons gives that real enchilada heat and aroma Use fresh chili powder if possible
• Cumin and dried cilantro: one teaspoon each adds signature Southwest notes Look for vibrant green dried cilantro
• Cayenne: quarter teaspoon for a gentle kick Add more if you prefer spicier food
• Minced garlic: one tablespoon fresh or preminced garlic intensifies flavor
• Shredded Colby Jack cheese: two cups melts perfectly for gooey richness Grate your own for best melt and texture
• Fresh cilantro and sour cream: for topping provide brightness and creamy balance

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

Heat a large skillet over mediumhigh and add ground beef Cook until no longer pink then add chopped onion Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and onions are soft and translucent If there is extra grease drain it to avoid greasiness in the final dish

Season Everything Generously:

Stir in salt pepper chili powder cumin dried cilantro and cayenne Toast these spices briefly to unlock their full aroma Add minced garlic and cook one more minute until fragrant

Build the Pasta Base:

Pour in beef broth then add enchilada sauce milk and dry pasta Stir to coat the noodles and ensure they are mostly submerged Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble around the edges then reduce heat to mediumlow Cover and simmer for about twelve minutes Stir halfway through to keep pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking

Finish with Cheese:

When pasta is tender remove lid Stir in one cup of shredded cheese until it melts into the sauce Then sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top Replace the lid and let it sit for a minute or two for the cheese to become perfectly gooey

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the skillet Add dollops of sour cream just before serving Spoon into bowls and enjoy immediately

Whenever I make this my family gathers anticipating that very first cheesy scoop

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before transferring them to an airtight container Refrigerate up to three days When reheating add a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy To freeze let it cool fully and keep in a freezer safe container for up to two months Note the pasta may soften slightly after thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken work well if you prefer lighter meat Hot enchilada sauce or extra cayenne can add more heat Mozzarella or cheddar can substitute for Colby Jack though the dish might lose a bit of richness

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy it on a bed of shredded lettuce or beside a fresh avocado salad For extra crunch sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top before serving

This cheesy enchilada hamburger helper is an easy family favorite that comes together quickly and reheats well. Serve with cilantro and sour cream for best results.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, medium shells work best, but elbows, rotini, or penne also absorb sauce well and maintain texture.

→ Is ground turkey a good substitute for beef?

Ground turkey works well for a lighter flavor while keeping similar texture and protein content.

→ How spicy is this dish?

It offers mild to moderate heat from chili powder and cayenne, adjustable to your taste preferences.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Leftovers store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.

→ What toppings complement this skillet?

Fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or avocado add brightness and balance to the flavors.

→ Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety and adjust cooking time accordingly.