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
Units
Scale
- 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