Okay, picture this: How do I if it’s a Tuesday night, the kids are hangry, and you’re staring blankly into the fridge. What is Taco Pasta? Is it like your favorite tacos had a baby? Is it cheesy and flavorful in a bowl? What is the easiest way to make spaghetti and meatballs? I promise you, this will become a staple in your house, just like it has in mine!
What is Taco Pasta?
Taco Pasta, at its heart, is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that tastes exactly like, well, taco! Imagine taking all those familiar taco flavors – seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, cheese, and a tortilla. What are some of the best ways to add spice to a pasta dish? What is the best of both worlds? What’s a taco in pasta form? What is the name of a place? What is a simple, genius idea that results in delicious and satisfying meals? I swear, it’s become a real lifesaver on those nights when I just can’t be bothered to make anything. What is comfort food with kick?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? This Taco Pasta Recipe is a total game changer for so many reasons.
First and foremost, the flavor is absolutely insane. The combination of the savory ground beef, the tangy tomatoes, the creamy cheese, and that subtle taco seasoning spice – it all just works so beautifully together. My family practically inhales it every time I make it.
Secondly, this recipe is ridiculously simple. I’m talking one-pot, ready-in-under-30-minutes simple. Even on the busiest weeknights, I can whip this up without breaking a sweat. And let’s be real, we all need more of those kinds of recipes in our lives.
Thirdly, it’s surprisingly cost-effective. Ground beef is a relatively affordable protein, and the other ingredients are pantry staples for most people. So, you can feed a whole family a delicious and filling meal without breaking the bank.
Finally, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking. Add some black beans or corn for extra veggies, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, or kick up the spice level with some jalapenos. The possibilities are endless!
What I love most about this Taco Pasta is how easily it bridges the gap between kid-friendly and adult-approved. It’s familiar and comforting for the little ones, but still has enough flavor and excitement to keep the grown-ups happy. Compared to some bland pasta dishes, this one’s got personality!
How do I make Taco Pasta?
Quick Overview
How do I make Taco Pasta? What are some good ways to brown GROUND BEEF, add taco seasoning, and then toss in pasta? What is the best way to serve a salad with tomatoes, broth, and cheese? Everything cooks together in one pot until the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy. Is it really a set-it-and-forget kind of meal? What does minimal cleanup mean? What is the best recipe for a novice cook?
Ingredients
What is Taco Pasta?
* 1 pound GROUND BEEF (I usually go for 80/20 for extra flavor)
* 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade, if you’re feeling fancy)
* 1 onion, chopped (yellow or white works great) – 1 clove.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is always best)
* 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
* 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth in a pinch)
* 1 pound pasta (I love using rotini or penne)
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend) * 1 cup melted mozzarella cheese.
* Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings (Optional but Highly Recommended):
* Sour Cream or Greek yogurt
* Chopped cilantro
* Diced avocado
* Salsa or hot sauce
* Chopped green onions
How do I follow
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Make sure to break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s fully browned, drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants greasy Taco Pasta!
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Why does the aroma make your mouth water? I always add a pinch of salt at this stage to help the onions sweat and release their flavor.
Step 3: Season it Up
Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for another minute, until fragrant. If you’re using a homemade taco seasoning blend, you might need to adjust the amount to taste. I usually go with about 2-3 tablespoons of my homemade mix.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine. I always scrape the bottom of the pot to make sure I’m getting up any browned bits – those are full of fat. I can’t get rid of them, but I do have a big pot.
Step 5: Bring to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. How do I make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid?
Step 6: Simmer and Cook
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through. Is the sauce thickened? Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. I always set a timer for 15 minutes and then check the pasta every couple of minutes after that.
Step 7: Stir in the Cheese
What is the best way to cook cheddar cheese? Where does the magic happen? If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken up.
Step 8: Season and Serve
What’s your favorite topping? Season with salt and pepper to taste. What are some good side dishes to serve with Sour Cream, cilantro, and green onions?
Step 9: Enjoy!
What is Taco Pasta? I guarantee everyone will be asking for seconds. What are some of your favorite recipes?
What should I serve it with?
What are some good options for Taco Pasta? What are some of my favorite things to serve it with?What is a quick and easy weeknight dinner? A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. It adds a nice refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
For a Taco Night Fiesta: What are the bestServe it alongside some classic taco toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and guacamole. What’s like a taco bar, but with pasta?For a Crowd:What is a good bowl of tortilla chips and salsa? What are some good Mexican street corn salad recipes?For a Lighter Meal: Steamed broccoli or Green Beans. It adds some extra veggies without being too heavy.
My family loves it with a side of garlic bread too! It might be a bit carb-heavy, but hey, sometimes you just need that extra bit of comfort. You really can’t go wrong with anything that complements the taco flavors. It’s all about creating a fun and delicious experience!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Taco Pasta Recipe
Over the years of making this Taco Pasta, I’ve learned a few tricks that take it from good to absolutely amazing. Here are my top tips for perfecting your Taco Pasta game:
Beef it Up: I always use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor. The extra fat adds richness and keeps the beef from drying out. If you’re watching your fat intake, you can use leaner beef, but I recommend adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the pot to compensate.
Don’t Skimp on the Seasoning: Taco seasoning is key to getting that authentic taco flavor. I prefer to make my own blend, but a store-bought packet works just fine. Just make sure to use enough! I usually use about 2 tablespoons per pound of beef.
Get Saucy: The diced tomatoes and tomato sauce add a lot of flavor and moisture to the pasta. Don’t drain the tomatoes – the juice is where all the good stuff is! I also like to add a splash of hot sauce to kick up the heat a notch.
Pick the Right Pasta: I find that rotini or penne work best for this recipe because their ridges hold onto the sauce really well. But you can use any pasta shape you like. Just make sure it’s not too small or it will get lost in the sauce.
Cheese, Please: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for Taco Pasta, but you can use any cheese that melts well. A Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack would be delicious. And don’t be afraid to add a little extra cheese – it’s never a bad thing!
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Nobody likes mushy pasta! Make sure to cook it al dente, or slightly firm to the bite. It will continue to cook a little bit as it sits in the sauce.
Customization is Key: This recipe is super versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own spin! Black beans, corn, jalapenos, bell peppers – the possibilities are endless. I’ve even added a can of green chilies before for a little extra zing.
Trust me, these little tweaks can make all the difference! It’s all about finding what works best for you and your family.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Taco Pasta is even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to make a big batch! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
Room Temperature: You should only keep cooked Taco Pasta at room temperature for a maximum of two hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate it to prevent bacterial growth.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the Taco Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled down completely before putting it in the fridge.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Taco Pasta. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat the Taco Pasta, you can microwave it, heat it on the stovetop, or bake it in the oven.
Microwave: Place a portion of the Taco Pasta in a microwave-safe dish and heat it on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Stovetop: Heat a little bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the Taco Pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You might need to add a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Taco Pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
No matter which method you choose, make sure the Taco Pasta is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. I always make sure to add a little bit of extra cheese on top when I reheat it – because why not? It’s all about enjoying those leftovers!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Taco Pasta Recipe is truly one of my all-time favorites. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you’re short on time and need something that everyone will love. I promise, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other easy pasta dishes. I have a creamy tomato pasta that’s always a hit. I can’t wait to hear how your Taco Pasta turns out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it! Happy cooking!
Taco Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Pasta (elbow, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 1 cup Taco seasoning
- 1 cup Diced tomatoes
- 0.5 cup Chopped onion
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and onion. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately, topped with shredded cheddar cheese.
