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Cheesy Enchilada Hamburger Helper

A one-skillet Tex-Mex inspired comfort meal packed with ground beef, enchilada sauce, pasta, and melted cheese. Easy, creamy, and ready in 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Dish
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1.5 cups enchilada sauce
  • 1.5 cups small pasta shells
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 0.25 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp cilantro chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add beef broth, enchilada sauce, and pasta. Stir well and bring to a boil.
  5. Cover and simmer 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
  6. Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream and cheeses until melted and creamy.
  7. Serve warm, topped with cilantro and optional toppings like jalapeños or tomatoes.

Notes

You can use any pasta shape you prefer—macaroni, shells, or rotini work great.