Looking for a dish that combines the bold, spicy flavors of tacos with the comforting creaminess of pasta? This Cheesy Taco Pasta is the perfect fusion of the two! Made with tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a cheesy, flavorful sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknights.
If you’re on the hunt for easy pasta dinner recipes, this one-pot meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it one of the ultimate fast dinner recipes. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving something hearty, this taco pasta will become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and Easy: It’s perfect for those nights when you need dinner on the table in a flash.
- One-Pot Meal: Fewer dishes, more flavor! Everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup.
- Customizable: Add your favorite taco toppings like salsa, sour cream, or avocado.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, comforting dish.
Ingredients
For the Taco Pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
- 8 oz (2 ½ cups) rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 ½ cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or spicy based on preference)
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
Optional Toppings
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream
- Diced avocado
- Sliced jalapeños
- Additional shredded cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet or pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add Seasonings and Liquid
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef and stir until the meat is evenly coated.
- Pour in the beef broth, salsa, and canned diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
3. Cook the Pasta
- Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Make It Cheesy
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese (if using). Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the pasta is creamy.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Spoon the cheesy taco pasta onto plates or bowls.
- Top with your favorite taco-inspired garnishes like sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Taco Pasta
- Choose the Right Pasta: Short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells works best as it holds the sauce well.
- Add Cream Cheese for Creaminess: The cream cheese is optional but adds a luscious, creamy texture.
- Adjust the Heat: Use a spicier salsa or add a pinch of chili powder if you like it hot. For a milder dish, opt for a mild salsa.
- One-Pot Perfection: Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Taco Pasta: Skip the meat and add black beans, pinto beans, or crumbled tofu for protein.
- Chicken Taco Pasta: Replace the ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Loaded Taco Pasta: Mix in sautéed bell peppers, corn, or olives for extra flavor and texture.
- Gluten-Free Taco Pasta: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure the taco seasoning is gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy taco pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
- A fresh side salad with a lime vinaigrette.
- Warm tortilla chips with guacamole or queso dip.
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Allow the pasta to cool completely, then freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm the pasta in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Why This Recipe Works
- Combines the bold, spicy flavors of tacos with the creamy comfort of pasta.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- One-pot cooking simplifies cleanup while maximizing flavor.
