Taco Pasta

A Delicious Twist on Pasta Night

Taco Pasta combines the heartiness of classic pasta with the bold flavors of taco night. Picture this: a comforting, creamy dish that brings a burst of flavor into your kitchen in less than 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something tasty yet effortless. Whether you’re feeding a family or throwing together a last-minute dinner for friends, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Reasons to try it

This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will quickly become a family favorite. Not only does it come together in a flash, but it also offers a hearty option that satisfies both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it perfect for those weeks when you need to stretch your grocery dollars further.

"My family devours this Taco Pasta every time I make it! It’s become our go-to meal, and I love how simple it is to whip up!" – A happy home cook

Preparing Taco Pasta

Cooking Taco Pasta is a straightforward process that delights the palate without overwhelming your kitchen. You’ll be sautéing beef, combining bold spices, and tossing in pasta all in one pot – it’s the kind of one-dish meal that makes cleanup a breeze. The whole mixing and simmering process takes only about 25 minutes, meaning you’ll have a delicious homemade dinner ready before you know it.

What you’ll need

To pull off this delightful meal, gather the following ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

You can easily swap out ground beef for turkey or a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.

Step-by-step instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
3. Drain any excess fat before stirring in the taco seasoning.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, then add the pasta shells.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender.
6. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving Taco Pasta is all about enhancing the flavors. Consider fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream to add a burst of freshness. Pair it with a simple side salad or some warm cornbread for a complete meal. For those looking to elevate their presentation, serve it in individual bowls topped with a sprinkle of additional cheese and a lime wedge.

Storage and reheating tips

Leftovers can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing your Taco Pasta. It holds up well for about three months—just allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-friendly containers. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.

Helpful cooking tips

1. For an added kick, consider incorporating some diced green chilies or a splash of hot sauce into the mixture.
2. If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked or leftover beef can cut down on cooking time.
3. Remember to stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking.

Creative twists

There’s always room for experimentation! Try adding in some black beans or corn to give your dish an extra layer of texture. You could also swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack for a spicier version. For a healthier spin, toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking.

Common questions

How long does this recipe take to prepare?
You can have Taco Pasta ready in just about 25-30 minutes!

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the pasta shells for any small pasta shape you have on hand.

How do I know if my meat is cooked through?
Your ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Ground beef should be browned with no pink remaining.

With a quick prep and cooking time, this Taco Pasta recipe is perfect for any night of the week, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Taco Pasta

Taco Pasta combines the heartiness of classic pasta with the bold flavors of taco night, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Mexican

Servings 4 servings

Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef Can swap for turkey or plant-based meat.
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar) Can substitute for pepper jack for a spicier version.
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
• Drain any excess fat before stirring in the taco seasoning.
• Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, then add the pasta shells.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender.
• Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.

Notes

For best flavor, consider toppings like chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or sour cream. Leftovers can be stored for up to three days in the fridge or frozen for up to three months. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking.

Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, One-Pot Meal, Quick dinner, Taco Pasta