This cheesy taco pasta is the ultimate comfort food mash-up. It’s like your favorite taco night and creamy pasta dinner got together and made magic! Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, hearty, and delicious that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Fast and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this is weeknight cooking at its best.
- Kid-approved: Creamy, cheesy, and full of taco flavor—what’s not to love?
- Minimal cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot for less mess.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your family’s tastes.
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Taco seasoning
- Pasta of your choice
- Salsa
- Cheddar cheese
The full list of ingredients with exact measurements is in the recipe card below.
Directions
- Cook your pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Add taco seasoning and water to the beef, following the instructions on the taco seasoning packet. Stir to combine.
- Mix in salsa and cooked pasta, stirring until evenly coated.
- Reduce heat to low, add shredded cheddar cheese, and stir until melted and creamy. Serve warm and enjoy!
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use short pasta shapes like penne, shells, or rotini to hold all that cheesy taco goodness.
- For an extra kick, use spicy taco seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne.
- Choose a chunky salsa for more texture in your dish.
- Save time by grating your cheese while the pasta cooks!
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a healthier or vegetarian option.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy twist.
- Top with sour cream, green onions, or avocado for a fresh finish.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This cheesy taco pasta is satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with:
- A side of tortilla chips and guacamole.
- A crisp romaine salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette.
- Cornbread or cheesy garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or milk to bring back its creamy texture.
- Avoid freezing, as the cheese sauce may separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to 1 day ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.
What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Short, sturdy pasta like shells, rotini, or penne works best to hold the sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Use hot salsa, spicy taco seasoning, or mix in some diced jalapeños.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and double-check your taco seasoning for gluten-free certification.
Conclusion
Cheesy Taco Pasta is everything you need for a quick and comforting dinner. It’s creamy, packed with taco flavor, and endlessly adaptable for your family’s preferences. Once you make it, this dish will quickly earn a spot in your weekly rotation—it’s that good!
Print
Cheesy Taco Pasta: A Family Favorite in 30 Minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
This cheesy taco pasta combines the bold flavors of tacos with the creamy comfort of pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a quick, hearty meal the whole family will love! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a Tex-Mex twist on classic pasta.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shell)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or sour cream
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning, broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Lower the heat and add cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve warm with optional toppings like cilantro, avocado, or sour cream.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or black beans for a leaner or vegetarian option.
- Use pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg