Name: Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta – A Must-Try Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
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; 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); 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.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Step 4: Add Seasonings & Tomatoes

Stir in taco seasoning, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Pour in water or beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta & Cheese

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.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

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