Cheesy Enchilada Hamburger

This cheesy enchilada hamburger helper is a one pan dinner that brings together ground beef, tender pasta, and smooth melty Colby Jack cheese with bold Southwest spices. It cooks all in one skillet, letting the pasta simmer right in enchilada sauce and beef broth so every bite is rich and flavorful. It takes just about 30 minutes to make and delivers comforting, cheesy goodness with minimal cleanup.

I first made this on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick but satisfying. Now it’s a go-to for the family especially on Fridays when everyone is craving something warm and filling.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: one pound for a juicy and flavorful base. Choose eighty five percent lean for balance between flavor and fat
• Chopped onion: adds sweet savoriness. Pick fresh firm onions with no green sprouts
• Beef broth: one cup deepens the savory sauce. Low sodium lets you control saltiness better
• Milk: one cup makes the sauce creamy. Whole milk works best but two percent is fine too
• Medium shell pasta: two and a half cups holds the sauce well. Select high quality pasta for best texture
• Mild enchilada sauce: two ten ounce cans defines the dish’s signature flavor. Use your favorite brand or homemade if you like
• Salt and pepper: half teaspoon each bring out the other flavors
• Chili powder: two teaspoons adds authentic enchilada warmth. Fresh spices offer the best punch
• Cumin and dried cilantro: one teaspoon each give it a Southwest flair. Choose bright green dried cilantro for freshness
• Cayenne: quarter teaspoon provides gentle heat. Adjust if you like it spicier
• Minced garlic: one tablespoon fresh is best but jarred works in a pinch
• Shredded Colby Jack cheese: two cups melts beautifully for creamy gooeyness. Shredding your own helps it melt smoother
• Fresh cilantro and sour cream: for topping add brightness and cooling balance

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until the beef turns from pink to brown. Add the chopped onion and continue cooking until the beef is cooked through and the onions are soft and translucent. Drain excess grease if you see any to keep the dish from being greasy

Season Everything Generously:

Stir in salt pepper chili powder cumin dried cilantro and cayenne. Let the spices toast in the hot skillet briefly to release their aroma and deepen flavor. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant

Build the Pasta Base:

Pour in the beef broth then add the enchilada sauce and milk. Stir in the dry pasta making sure all noodles are coated and mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil with bubbles popping at the edges. Lower heat to medium low and cover. Simmer for about twelve minutes stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking

Finish with Cheese:

Once the pasta is tender remove the lid and stir in half the shredded cheese until melted into the sauce. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top. Replace the lid and let sit for a minute or two off heat until the cheese melts into a gooey topping

Garnish and Serve:

Add freshly chopped cilantro over the skillet and dollop sour cream right before serving. Scoop into bowls and enjoy while warm

Colby Jack cheese is the star here because it melts so beautifully creating that irresistible gooey topping. Every time I make this the whole family crowds around the kitchen waiting for that first cheesy scoop. It’s comfort food at its best with a fun TexMex twist.

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating microwave with a splash of milk to keep it creamy. This dish freezes well for up to two months but note the pasta softens a little after thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground beef can be replaced with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Use hot enchilada sauce or increase cayenne to turn up the heat. Mozzarella or cheddar cheeses can stand in for Colby Jack although the dish will lose some of its rich meltiness

Serving Suggestions

Although it is a full meal on its own I like serving it over shredded lettuce or alongside a simple avocado salad. For some crunch scatter crushed tortilla chips on top just before serving

Enjoy this easy, cheesy skillet dinner any night of the week. It’s quick to make and perfect for sharing.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Medium shells work well, but elbows, rotini, or penne also absorb the sauce and hold up nicely.

→ Is ground turkey a good substitute for beef?

Yes, ground turkey offers a lighter flavor and similar texture while keeping the dish hearty.

→ How spicy is this dish?

It has mild to moderate heat from chili powder and cayenne, adjustable to your preference.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with milk or broth for best texture.

→ What toppings complement this skillet?

Fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and avocado add brightness and creamy balance.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Use gluten-free pasta instead and adjust cooking time accordingly to maintain texture.