Taco Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Taco Pasta is a quick and comforting dish that combines the flavors of a classic taco with tender pasta. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and easy to make in one pan.

Ingredients

• 3 cups small shell pasta
• 1 pound ground beef (lean or extra lean)
• 1/2 cup onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1/4 cup taco seasoning
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place a large frying pan on medium-high heat.
2. Step 2: Add ground beef and stir until it is no longer pink. Drain the fat from the pan.
3. Step 3: Add chopped onions and minced garlic if using. Fry for 2-3 minutes until onions become translucent.
4. Step 4: Stir in the tomato sauce, taco seasoning, water, and pasta.
5. Step 5: Loosely cover the pan and reduce heat to medium.
6. Step 6: Cook for 5-10 minutes until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding diced bell peppers or corn with the onions.
• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Swap out the shell pasta for elbow macaroni or rotini based on what you have on hand.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• To make it vegetarian, replace the beef with cooked black beans or lentils and increase the taco seasoning slightly.

Storage

Store leftover taco pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, cheddar or mozzarella work well, but you can also try Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor.

Is it necessary to drain the fat from the beef?

Draining the fat helps reduce greasiness and keeps the dish lighter, but if you prefer a richer taste, you can skip this step.

Taco Pasta Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 147 reviews

Taco Pasta is a delightful fusion dish that combines the zesty flavors of a classic taco with the comforting texture of pasta. This easy one-pan recipe features ground beef seasoned with taco spices, tender pasta cooked right in the sauce, and a melty cheese topping, making it a perfect quick and satisfying meal for weeknights.

• Author: Isabella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Meat

• 3 cups small shell pasta
• 1 pound ground beef (lean or extra lean)

Vegetables and Seasoning

• 1/2 cup onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1/4 cup taco seasoning

Liquids and Cheese

• 2 cups water
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the Pan: Place a large frying pan on medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the meat.
2. Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the hot pan and stir frequently until it is no longer pink, ensuring even cooking. Once cooked, drain the excess fat from the pan to reduce greasiness.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions and optional minced garlic to the beef. Fry this mixture for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant, building layers of flavor.
4. Add Liquids and Pasta: Stir in the tomato sauce, taco seasoning, water, and pasta shells. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Simmer and Cook Pasta: Loosely cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium. Let the mixture cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the sauce flavors.
6. Add Cheese and Cilantro: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Add optional fresh chopped cilantro for a bright, fresh finish.
7. Serve: Dish out the taco pasta immediately and enjoy this flavorful, comforting meal.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
• Adjust the taco seasoning amount based on preferred spice level.
• If the pasta absorbs the liquid too quickly before cooking through, add a splash more water as needed.
• Cheese type can be varied—pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella offers a creamy melt.
• Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: taco pasta, easy weeknight dinner, ground beef pasta, Tex-Mex pasta, one pan meal