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Beef Enchilada Fideo Skillet brings together comfort food flavors in one pan for an easy and crowd-pleasing dinner. Blending classic enchilada taste with quick-cooking Fideo pasta this meal is full of bold flavor and can be on the table in just twenty minutes. I love making this on busy weeknights when everyone is hungry and craving something hearty.
The first time I tried this skillet meal it became an instant favorite with my kids. Now it is one of our regular weeknight meals especially when I need something filling fast.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: provides richness and protein Look for beef with less fat for a lighter dish
- Yellow onion diced: adds sweetness and aromatic base Choose onions that are heavy and firm
- Red enchilada sauce: gives deep flavor and signature color For best results use a brand you enjoy or try homemade
- Water: helps the pasta cook evenly and soaks up all the flavors
- Fideo pasta: makes this skillet unique Find it in the pasta or Hispanic foods aisle broken spaghetti is a substitute
- Mexican blend cheese shredded: melts beautifully for a creamy topping Always grate your own if possible for best melt
- Sour cream optional: complements spicy notes and adds a creamy finish Use full fat for the richest result
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onion:
- In a large skillet cook the ground beef with diced onion over medium-high heat Stir the meat and onions often so they brown evenly Drain off any extra fat or juices This step is key for layering rich flavors
- Simmer with Sauce and Fideo:
- Add red enchilada sauce and water right into the skillet Stir in the fideo pasta so it is fully coated with sauce Bring to a simmer then reduce the heat Cover the pan Cook for about ten minutes Stir frequently so the fideo does not stick and cooks evenly This lets the pasta soak up all the sauce
- Finish and Garnish:
- When the fideo is tender and most liquid absorbed check for doneness Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top if you like Let it melt just a minute or two Add a dollop of sour cream before serving for a creamy touch
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My favorite ingredient here is the fideo pasta It reminds me of family gatherings as a kid when my abuela would make her famous sopa de fideo Now I use it in skillet dishes for that nostalgic flavor and it is always a hit
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Fideo pasta will soak up some sauce as it sits so when reheating add a splash of water or extra enchilada sauce to bring the dish back to its original saucy texture Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find fideo broken spaghetti works well Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version You can also swap in a different cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist Add black beans or corn to stretch the meal and add texture
Serving Suggestions
This skillet is delicious on its own but you can serve it with a crisp green salad or simple avocado slices for contrast Warm flour tortillas or corn chips make perfect sides for scooping up the saucy noodles If you want more vegetable add-ins roasted peppers or diced tomatoes fit right in
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Cultural Context
Fideo pasta is a staple in Mexican kitchens often used in soups and homey comfort dishes Here it meets enchilada flavors in a skillet which is a fun blending of Tex Mex and American weeknight cooking traditions These kinds of fusion recipes show how easy pantry meals can become the most loved family classics
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of beef works best?
Lean ground beef is ideal—it's flavorful and doesn't release excessive grease during cooking, ensuring a rich, balanced dish.
- → Can I substitute the fideo pasta?
Yes, short vermicelli or angel hair pasta broken into small pieces can be used if fideo is unavailable, though texture may vary.
- → How spicy is the enchilada sauce?
The heat depends on your chosen brand; opt for mild or medium sauce according to taste, and adjust with toppings as needed.
- → What toppings pair well with this dish?
A blend of shredded Mexican cheese and sour cream adds creaminess, while fresh cilantro or green onions provide a fragrant finish.
- → Is it possible to make this ahead?
Yes, the dish keeps well refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove and add fresh cheese just before serving.