Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is incredibly versatile, budget-friendly, and quick to prepare. It offers all the bold flavors of tacos in a fun and unexpected way. Whether you want it spicy, mild, or extra cheesy, this recipe can be customized to your taste. Plus, it’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beef
taco seasoning
pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or taco cheese blend)
salsa
Directions
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart as it cooks.
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Drain excess fat, leaving a small amount to help cook the seasonings.
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Stir in taco seasoning, salsa, and a bit of water. Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture and gently stir to combine.
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Stir in cheese until melted and creamy. Optionally, top with additional cheese and broil until bubbly.
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Serve hot, optionally topping with sour cream, green onions, or fresh cilantro.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves approximately 6 people.
Preparation and cooking time together are about 30 minutes.
Variations
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Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra hot salsa.
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Vegetarian: Substitute beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives.
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Creamier: Mix in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream.
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Different Cheese: Try pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a flavor twist.
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Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, microwave in short intervals or warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
For freezing, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives are great options.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the beef mixture and pasta separately, then combine and add cheese just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2-3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave until warmed through.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Just use a larger skillet or pot to accommodate the extra ingredients.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni works best for soaking up the sauce.
Can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, hot salsa, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
Is there a way to make it lighter?
Use lean ground meat and low-fat cheese to make a lighter version.
What toppings go well with this dish?
Sour cream, guacamole, green onions, and chopped cilantro all make excellent toppings.
Conclusion
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a simple, flavor-packed dish that combines the best of two comfort food favorites into one unforgettable meal. Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to please a crowd, it’s a must-try for any pasta or taco lover. Give it a shot—you’ll be reaching for seconds!
Print
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is the ultimate easy comfort food, combining all the bold, savory flavors of tacos with the cozy satisfaction of a cheesy pasta dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this quick and kid-friendly meal is customizable, indulgent, and absolutely delicious! Keywords: Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta, taco pasta recipe, easy taco pasta, cheesy pasta dinners, quick family meals.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or taco blend)
1 cup salsa
½ cup water (as needed)
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart.
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Drain excess fat, keeping a small amount to cook the seasonings.
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Stir in taco seasoning, salsa, and a bit of water. Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Add cooked pasta to the beef mixture and stir gently to combine.
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Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
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Optionally, top with extra cheese and broil for a bubbly, golden finish.
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Serve hot, with optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, or fresh cilantro.
Notes
Add diced jalapeños or hot salsa for extra heat.
Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or a plant-based option for a different spin.
For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or splash of heavy cream.
Short pasta varieties like penne or rotini work best for soaking up the cheesy taco sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
