Cheesy Taco Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Taco Pasta is a perfect blend of two comfort foods—tacos and pasta! The taco seasoning brings a deliciously spiced flavor to the ground beef, while the salsa adds a tangy depth. The melted cheddar cheese makes it creamy and indulgent, and the crushed tortilla chips offer a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound large shells pasta
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 cup jarred salsa
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Garnish:

• Cheese
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Sour cream
• Chopped parsley

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Cook the large shells pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the ground beef: Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
4. Season the meat: Stir in the taco seasoning, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes. Add the water and salsa, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the pasta and cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat the pasta in the sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy, cheesy sauce.
6. Season and garnish: Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with additional shredded cheese, crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, and chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add veggies: You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or black beans to make it more nutritious and colorful.
• Spicy version: For extra heat, add jalapeños or more red pepper flakes to the dish.
• Use ground turkey: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Different cheese: Try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or salsa to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the large shells with other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving.

3. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can use ground chicken, turkey in place of the beef if preferred.

4. How can I make it spicier?

To make the dish spicier, add fresh diced jalapeños, extra red pepper flakes, or use a spicy salsa.

5. Can I freeze the Cheesy Taco Pasta?

Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly before serving.

6. Can I substitute homemade taco seasoning?

Yes, you can substitute homemade taco seasoning for the packet if you prefer. A blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika will work well.

7. Can I use a dairy-free cheese option?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese to make this dish suitable for those with dairy sensitivities or vegans.

8. What can I serve with Cheesy Taco Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, Mexican rice, or a side of guacamole and chips.

9. How do I make the pasta more creamy?

For a creamier version, you can stir in a little sour cream or cream cheese at the end.

10. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, fresh minced garlic adds a wonderful flavor to this dish.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Pasta is the ultimate comfort food mashup, blending the familiar flavors of tacos with the creamy goodness of pasta. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for busy weeknights or a fun family dinner. With its cheesy, savory, and spicy flavors, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite every time!

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