Description
This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta combines bold taco flavors with creamy, melted cheese and tender pasta, creating a delicious, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is a must-try for taco and pasta lovers alike!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ cup water or beef broth
Cheese & Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
- Jalapeño slices (optional)
Substitutions & Variations:
- Use whole-wheat or chickpea pasta for a healthier version.
- Swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Stir in taco seasoning, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Pour in water or beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the drained pasta and mix well. Reduce heat to low, then stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy. Optional: stir in sour cream for extra richness.
Remove from heat and garnish with cilantro, green onions, and jalapeño slices. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; reheat with a splash of broth.
- Adjust taco seasoning to taste for a milder or spicier version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta, taco pasta recipe, easy cheesy pasta, Tex-Mex pasta