Taco Pasta
Cheesy Taco Pasta is a quick, flavorful dish that combines the best of tacos and pasta into one delicious meal.
It brings the comforting nostalgia of Hamburger Helper with a homemade twist, perfect for weeknight dinners.
With minimal prep and cook time, this cheesy, taco-flavored pasta dish will satisfy both adults and kids. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar, and a hint of salsa, it’s a tasty and easy-to-make dinner that everyone will love.
Key Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Pasta
Large shell pasta – Its shape captures all the delicious sauce and cheese, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Ground beef – Provides heartiness and rich flavor, making it the perfect base for the taco seasoning.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts smoothly, giving the dish its signature cheesy goodness.
Taco seasoning – Adds the classic Tex-Mex spice mix, infusing the dish with bold, smoky flavors.
Salsa – Enhances the sauce with tangy tomato flavor and a touch of heat, tying the dish together.
Water – Helps the taco seasoning create a saucy consistency to coat the pasta.
How to Make Cheesy Taco Pasta
Cook the pasta – Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Brown the beef – In a large pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain the excess fat.
Add seasoning – Stir in the taco seasoning and water, simmering until the liquid evaporates, allowing the beef to soak up the flavors.
Combine ingredients – Add the cooked pasta back into the pan along with the salsa and shredded cheddar. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well-mixed.
Serve – Serve hot, with optional tortilla chips for an extra crunchy topping.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Taco Pasta
For added creaminess, mix in a spoonful of sour cream at the end. You can also play with the spice level by choosing a medium or hot salsa or even adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a healthier variation, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you’d like to sneak in some vegetables, diced bell peppers or onions can be sautéed with the beef.
Storing Your Cheesy Taco Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to maintain the creaminess. For longer storage, freeze the pasta for up to two months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Cheesy Taco Pasta is a simple and satisfying meal that brings together the best of two comfort foods. Whether you’re serving a crowd or prepping for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress!
Taco Pasta Recipe
Zutaten
- 1/2 pound large shell pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning or 1 packet
- 1 cup salsa jarred
- 3/4 cup water
Anleitungen
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, brown the ground beef thoroughly over medium heat. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef and pour in the water. Stir well and allow it to simmer until the liquid has evaporated.
- Return the cooked pasta to the pan, then add the salsa and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir everything together until the cheese is fully melted and the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Serve immediately, and for an extra crunch, top with tortilla chips if desired.