Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the irresistible combination of bold taco flavors and creamy pasta in this Cheesy Taco Pasta. Imagine tender pasta coated in a cheesy, spiced sauce with juicy ground beef—comfort food at its finest. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, hearty, and absolutely delicious.

this Recipe

I stumbled upon this dish one night when craving something that combined my love for tacos and pasta. A little experimentation later, this crowd-pleaser became a permanent fixture in my meal rotation. Let’s dive in and discover why this recipe will become your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Taco Pasta

Get ready to add a recipe to your weekly lineup that ticks all the boxes—easy, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying.

First, this dish is a breeze to make, coming together in just 30 minutes. With everything cooked in one pan, you’ll have fewer dishes to wash, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

The combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce guarantees a meal your family will ask for on repeat. Plus, the taco seasoning adds a delightful kick that’s perfectly balanced with the richness of the cheese.

It’s also super versatile. Want to add some extra veggies or swap out ingredients? This recipe adapts effortlessly to your preferences. Even picky eaters will clean their plates—trust me!

Whether you’re looking for a quick meal after a long day or something impressive to serve on a casual night, this Cheesy Taco Pasta is the answer.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients, each working together to create a perfectly balanced meal.

Pasta: For this recipe, I recommend using short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells. Their ridges and curves trap the cheesy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you prefer whole-grain or gluten-free pasta, feel free to substitute.

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a tender, juicy base that doesn’t overpower the dish. If you prefer, ground chicken or turkey can work just as well while keeping the recipe light.

Taco Seasoning: The star of this dish! A good taco seasoning blend adds smoky, spicy, and earthy notes. You can use store-bought or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder.

Tomato Sauce: A small amount of tomato sauce brings a subtle tang that pairs beautifully with the spices and cheese. It also helps create the creamy, velvety texture that coats the pasta.

Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the sauce, delivering that luscious, cheesy finish. For extra creaminess, a handful of mozzarella can be added.

Special Equipment: You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan with a lid to cook everything in one pot. A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring will also come in handy.

How to Make This Cheesy Taco Pasta

Creating this cheesy, hearty meal couldn’t be simpler. With just a few steps, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil and the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease, if needed.

Next, sprinkle the cooked beef with taco seasoning, stirring to coat the meat evenly. Let it cook for another minute to toast the spices and deepen their flavor. You’ll notice the warm, fragrant aroma of the spices filling your kitchen.

Stir in the tomato sauce and about 2 cups of water or broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the uncooked pasta directly to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.

Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta will absorb the flavorful liquid as it cooks, creating a creamy sauce. Keep an eye on the pan, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Once the pasta is tender, sprinkle the cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely. Remove the lid, give everything a good stir, and garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of color.

Serve your Cheesy Taco Pasta hot, and enjoy the perfect harmony of spices, creaminess, and hearty goodness.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing this Cheesy Taco Pasta is a breeze.

Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more as it sits, making it just as delicious when reheated.

To reheat, add the pasta to a skillet with a splash of water or broth. Warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

If you’d like to freeze this dish, cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as described above.

Variations and Substitutions

This Cheesy Taco Pasta is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative with it!

For a veggie-packed version, add diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the skillet when you sauté the beef. They’ll add color, texture, and an extra layer of flavor.

If you’re craving a spicier kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the beef. Adjust the heat to your liking.

For a lighter version, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use reduced-fat cheese and whole-grain pasta for a healthier twist.

Prefer a creamy sauce with a tangy kick? Stir in a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt just before serving. This addition will make the sauce even richer.

If you’re serving a larger crowd, double the recipe and serve it with tortilla chips on the side for a fun, nacho-inspired twist.

Cheesy Taco Pasta is a dish that brings everyone to the table. With its rich, comforting flavors and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again and again—each time with a delicious new twist!

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