Quick and easy one-skillet enchilada pasta made with red lentil pasta so it’s a good source of plant-based protein, gluten-free and loaded with flavor. It’s a dish the whole family will enjoy! This post is sponsored by Barilla®.
Do you ever have those days where you feel like you’re doing it all? You work, you clean the house, you make dinner, you do the dishes… you are superwoman. Or you just feel extremely exhausted. I definitely have those days, and it’s in those moments that I 1) ask for backup/support and 2) create a super simple dinner using as few dishes as possible. ?
This one-skillet enchilada pasta came on one of those nights! I was over washing a million dishes and was craving a meal that was both delicious and satisfying, while still being healthy.
When thinking about creating a recipe (especially dinner recipes), I always start with the base. What is this meal going to be centered around?
For this recipe, the base is a surprising protein powerhouse. I decided to make a variation of one of my favorite meals: enchiladas. But I wanted it to be in pasta form because pasta is so satisfying and easy to make using just one skillet! I chose the new Barilla Red Lentil Rotini as the base of this recipe because it’s a good source of plant-based protein and the al dente texture complements the ingredients.
Btw, have you seen the new line of legume pastas from Barilla yet? If not, definitely check them out (either on Amazon or in select grocery stores). There’s a chickpea and red lentil variety — both are made with only one simple ingredient, taste amazing and provide a good source of protein and excellent source of fiber. Bonus points: they are certified gluten free and Non-GMO Project Verified. Isaac and I both are obsessed. Isaac seriously wants to have pasta for dinner every night now.
I’ve partnered with Barilla for a series of posts so get excited to see some simple, wholesome pasta recipes (like this one) from me over the next few months!
Okay back to the dinner recipe creation process. The next step is to think about the flavors I want to come through in the dish. I decided I was going to swap a traditional pasta sauce for enchilada sauce. Because enchilada sauce is super creamy, I decided to dilute it with a little broth to give it a consistency that would be a better fit for the pasta. I seasoned with my MVPs onion and garlic.
Then I added vegetables! You know me, all my meals have to be packed with two things: protein and vegetables. This meal is no different! I added in yellow corn, red bell pepper and tomatoes. This combination of flavors worked great for the dish and they’re all hearty vegetables, so they wouldn’t lose their shape or texture while cooking in the skillet.
After the pasta and veggies are finished, it’s go time! You can top the dish with your favorite enchilada toppings or follow my suggestions. I went with sliced hot peppers, cherry tomatoes, green onions, homemade vegan sour cream and a little dairy-free cheese. But really, the topping options are endless.
Do you have a favorite pasta dish that could use an EBF upgrade? Leave a comment below and I’ll try to work on it! And let me know what you think about the Barilla Legume pastas – you find them on Amazon!
Be sure to check out all of the pumpkin recipes and the full collection of dinner recipes on EBF!
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I used Siete enchilada sauce and it ended up a bit spicy for me. I topped it with vegan ricotta cheese and avocado. My hubby really enjoyed it also.
This will go in the regular menu rotation. Yummy comfort food.
Woo!! That makes me so happy to hear, Shaunne! I’m so glad this recipe has been a hit. Thanks for the review. I really appreciate it!
This is one of my favorite weeknight meals that is quick, easy, healthy and delicious! It is on regular rotation in my house. Super flavorful and makes enough for leftovers!
I don’t have the red lentil pasta. Can I use a different kind? How many ounces would I need? Thanks!
Hey Robin – You can use any type of pasta! And it would be the same amount. 🙂
This was a good and very tasty recipe. I was pleasantly surprised.
I also had wayyy to much sauce. This was like a chili rather than a pasta dish!