Cheesy Taco Pasta

Name: Cheesy Taco Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: ½ pound large pasta shells; 1 tablespoon canola oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 yellow onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons taco seasoning; ¾ cup jarred salsa; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Published: May 23, 2025

by eva

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This Cheesy Taco Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a fun dish for Taco Tuesday, this recipe checks all the boxes. With just one pan and 30 minutes, you can whip up a comforting dinner that the whole family will love. The melty cheese and zesty taco seasoning make this dish a standout favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
One-Pan Wonder: Clean-up is a breeze with everything cooked in one skillet.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors of tacos combined with pasta.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap proteins to suit your taste.
Delicious Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking much smoother. Here are some essential items you’ll need for making Cheesy Taco Pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Cooking spoon
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Colander

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: A must-have for cooking everything in one pan; it allows for easy mixing and simmering.
Colander: Essential for draining pasta efficiently without losing any noodles.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

½ pound large pasta shells

For the Filling

1 tablespoon canola oil
1 pound ground beef
1 yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
¾ cup water
1 cup jarred salsa
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

For Garnish

Extra shredded cheese
Crushed tortilla chips
Sour cream
Chopped parsley

How to Make Cheesy Taco Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside in a bowl.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the canola oil. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Drain excess fat from the skillet, leaving about 1–2 tablespoons. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Add taco seasoning, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Pour in water and let simmer until most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the cooked pasta along with salsa and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is fully combined and cheese has melted.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with optional toppings like extra cheese, crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, and chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Taco Pasta!

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Pasta

Cheesy Taco Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Extra Toppings

Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
Crushed Tortilla Chips – Sprinkle these on top for a delightful crunch.
Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or cilantro can brighten up the dish with fresh flavor.

As a Casserole

Baked Cheesy Taco Pasta – Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole.

In Taco Shells

Taco Shell Boats – Scoop Cheesy Taco Pasta into taco shells for a fun, handheld meal option.

With Salad

Simple Green Salad – Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal and extra crunch.

As Leftovers

Reheated Delight – This dish makes great leftovers! Just reheat and enjoy as is or add more cheese.

How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Pasta

To make your Cheesy Taco Pasta even better, follow these simple tips that ensure maximum flavor and satisfaction.

Bold Seasoning – Use fresh taco seasoning for an authentic taste that elevates your dish.
Quality Cheese – Opt for freshly shredded cheddar cheese; it melts better than pre-shredded options.
Cook Pasta Al Dente – This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with other ingredients.
Adjust Spice Levels – Modify red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance; you can always add more later!
Add Vegetables – Incorporate bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and color in your Cheesy Taco Pasta.
Serve Immediately – Enjoy this dish right after cooking for the best texture and flavor experience.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Taco Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Taco Pasta can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

Mexican Street Corn – Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, and chili powder brings vibrant flavors to your meal.
Guacamole and Chips – Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips makes for an irresistible appetizer.
Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans complement the pasta’s flavors while adding protein to your plate.
Spanish Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices provides a hearty side that pairs well with tacos.
Grilled Veggies – Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add freshness and color to your table.
Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce combined with tangy dressing is a classic choice that balances the richness of the pasta.
Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to savory dishes like Cheesy Taco Pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheesy Taco Pasta can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your dish’s flavor and texture.

Using the wrong pasta – Not all pasta works well with this recipe. Stick to large pasta shells for the best texture and flavor absorption.
Overcooking the beef – Cooking ground beef too long can make it tough. Brown it just until it’s no longer pink for tender results.
Skipping seasoning adjustments – Each salsa has a different spice level. Taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly to avoid blandness.
Not draining excess fat – Leaving too much fat from the beef can make the dish greasy. Drain properly, but leave some for flavor.
Ignoring cheese melt time – Adding cheese too soon may not give it enough time to melt properly. Wait until the other ingredients are combined before adding.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Taco Pasta

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheesy Taco Pasta

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warm.
Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Cheesy Taco Pasta so special?

This dish combines classic taco flavors with comforting pasta, making it a unique and satisfying meal perfect for any night.

Can I customize my Cheesy Taco Pasta?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or swap out ground beef for turkey or plant-based proteins.

How do I ensure my Cheesy Taco Pasta is creamy?

Make sure to use freshly shredded cheese and allow it to melt completely before serving, ensuring a creamy texture throughout.

What can I serve with Cheesy Taco Pasta?

Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal. You can also serve it with extra toppings like avocado or jalapeños.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Taco Pasta is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to modify ingredients based on your family’s preferences or what you have on hand. This dish will surely become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!

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