Pin A one-pan family-friendly dish blending the bold flavors of tacos with creamy cheesy pasta for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
I first made this cheesy taco pasta on a hectic Tuesday night when I needed something the whole family would enjoy. It became an instant favorite due to its comforting textures and the way it brings together the best of taco night and pasta night in a single pan.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (or ground turkey): 1 lb (450 g)
- Diced onion: 1 small
- Minced garlic: 2 cloves
- Taco seasoning: 2 tbsp (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Uncooked short pasta: 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) rotini penne or shells
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) undrained
- Low-sodium chicken or beef broth: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml)
- Tomato sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g)
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Garnish (optional): Chopped cilantro sliced green onions diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Brown the meat:
- In a large skillet over medium high heat cook the ground beef until browned breaking it apart as it cooks (about 4–5 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Add the diced onion and garlic sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Season the beef:
- Stir in taco seasoning salt and black pepper mixing well to coat the beef.
- Add liquids and pasta:
- Add uncooked pasta canned tomatoes (with their juices) broth and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12–14 minutes stirring occasionally until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Make it cheesy:
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add sour cream:
- Fold in the sour cream until well combined.
- Serve:
- Serve hot garnished with cilantro green onions or diced tomatoes if desired.
Pin This dish is always a hit at our table and even picky eaters ask for seconds. There's something about the gooey cheese and smoky spices that brings everyone together at dinnertime.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad tortilla chips or simply enjoy on its own. A squeeze of lime or a side of avocado adds extra freshness.
Customization Ideas
For a spicier version add diced jalapeño or swap the cheese for pepper jack. Use ground turkey for a leaner take or stir in black beans for extra protein.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Pin This skillet meal is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy how easily it comes together for busy nights!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work well as alternatives and modify the flavor while keeping the texture similar.
- → What types of pasta are best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells are ideal since they hold the sauce and cook evenly in the skillet.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions or increase taco seasoning to enhance the heat level.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely, just replace regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety to maintain the same method and flavor profile.
- → What garnishes complement the flavors best?
Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and diced tomatoes add brightness and a fresh contrast to the creamy and savory elements.