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Cheesy Enchilada Pasta Bake

by
S
Sophie

A delightful twist on a classic Mexican-inspired dish, combining cheesy goodness with a rich enchilada sauce.

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Preparation time (min) 15 min
Cooking time (min) 25 min
Difficulty
Cheesy Enchilada Pasta Bake

Ingredients

4 servings
|
  • 1.5 cup
    Cheese shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup
    Refried beans canned or Black beans
  • 1.5 cup
    Enchilada sauce red or Green enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup
    Tomato sauce plain or Marinara sauce
  • 12
    Pasta shells large or Manicotti
  • 1 cup
    Cheese shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp
    Green onion chopped or Cilantro
  • 1/2 cup
    Sour cream plain or Greek yogurt

Instructions

1

Prepare the filling

Combine the shredded cheese and refried beans in a mixing bowl until well mixed.

Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of cheese and beans.

Ingredients needed for this step

cheese refried beans
2

Stuff the pasta

Stuff the pasta shells with the cheese and bean mixture, pressing gently to fill.

Use a small spoon or piping bag for easier filling.

Ingredients needed for this step

pasta shells cheese refried beans
3

Prepare the sauce

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the enchilada sauce and tomato sauce, and heat until warm.

Stir the sauces together to blend the flavors evenly.

Ingredients needed for this step

enchilada sauce tomato sauce
4

Layer the sauce

Spread half of the sauce mixture in the bottom of a baking dish.

This prevents the pasta from sticking to the dish.

Ingredients needed for this step

enchilada sauce tomato sauce
5

Assemble the dish

Arrange the stuffed pasta shells in the baking dish and pour the remaining sauce over them.

Ensure all shells are coated with sauce for even cooking.

Ingredients needed for this step

pasta shells enchilada sauce tomato sauce
6

Bake the dish

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.

Covering the dish helps retain moisture during baking.

7

Add the cheese topping

Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.

Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Ingredients needed for this step

cheese
8

Garnish and serve

Garnish with sour cream and chopped green onions before serving.

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Ingredients needed for this step

sour cream green onion

Nutrition Facts (100g)

Calories 210 kcal
Fat 10.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5.5 g
Carbohydrates 24 g
Fiber 2 g
Sugar 3 g
Protein 8 g

Learn More About This Recipe

📝

About this Recipe

Discover the Cheesy Enchilada Pasta Bake, a Mexican-inspired dish that's easy to prepare and full of flavor. This recipe combines pasta shells stuffed with a creamy cheese and bean mixture, baked in a rich enchilada sauce, and topped with melted cheese and fresh garnishes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
💪

Why This Recipe Is Good For You

This recipe is a great source of protein and calcium due to the cheese and beans. It's also customizable, allowing you to add vegetables or lean proteins for a balanced meal. Ideal for those looking for a comforting yet nutritious dinner option.
💡

Tips & Tricks

For best results, ensure the pasta shells are evenly coated with the sauce before baking. You can also prepare the filling ahead of time to save on prep. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving enhances the flavors.
🔄

Recipe Variations

Try using whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist or adding cooked chicken or beef to the filling for extra protein. You can also experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
🗄️

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or sauce if needed to prevent drying out.
📚

Recipe History

This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Mexican enchiladas, adapting the concept to a pasta bake format. It's a fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisines, showcasing the versatility of these culinary traditions.
🥗

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. The beans add fiber, while the cheese contributes to calcium intake. Adjust portions based on dietary needs.
🍽️

Pairing Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of iced tea or a light beer pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors.

Tags

cheesy comfort food baked vegetarian mexican pasta

Recipe Categories

Cuisine

mexican other

Meal Type

dinner lunch other

Course

main course other

Cooking Methods

baking microwaving

Occasions

weeknight dinner family gathering potluck other

Dietary Restrictions

vegetarian low-sugar pescatarian halal

Allergens

milk soybeans

Seasons

all-season

Difficulty

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