Cheesy Taco Pasta

Introduction

Cheesy Taco Pasta delivers the flavorful punch of your favorite taco night—richly seasoned beef, aromatic veggies, and plenty of cheese—all wrapped up in the comfort of a creamy, satisfying pasta. This crowd-pleasing mashup is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you’re craving something bold, cheesy, and supremely comforting in under 40 minutes.

Why Cheesy Taco Pasta Wins Every Time

Pairing south-of-the-border spices with a gooey cheese sauce and tender pasta, this recipe hits all the right notes: robust flavor, hearty texture, and irresistible creaminess. Its simplicity and the ability to fill a big skillet with crowd-pleasing goodness make it a go-to for family dinners—and the leftovers are just as good the next day.

Key Tips for Taco Pasta Perfection

Success lies in balancing the taco seasoning and the cheese. Use shredded cheddar for sharp flavor, adding a Mexican blend for richness if desired. For the ground beef base, browning with onions and peppers builds depth. Chop veggies quickly and evenly using the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper and get dinner prepped in a flash.

When it’s time to cook, a reliable nonstick skillet like the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch ensures even cooking and prevents cheeses from sticking or burning.

How to Assemble Cheesy Taco Pasta

Start by sautéing aromatics and browning meat. Fold in cooked pasta and stir through salsa and cheese for luscious, taco-inspired sauce. For perfectly mashed beef, a Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher ensures crumbled, evenly cooked results.

The dish comes together quickly and can be finished with your favorite toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, or crispy tortilla strips.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Taco Pasta

Cheesy Taco Pasta is best served straight from the skillet, hot and bubbling, garnished with diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Pack leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for easy, mess-free lunches or dinners.

For parties or picnics, tote servings in a Bentgo Salad Container—keeping portions perfectly contained and ready to enjoy anywhere.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

One batch makes 6 hearty servings, with each plate containing approximately 450–550 calories, depending on cheese type and toppings. This recipe is filling and a great way to sneak in extra veggies—ideal for family-style meals.

Cheesy Taco Pasta (Recap)

Cheesy Taco Pasta unites the best of Tex-Mex and classic comfort food in a single skillet. Irresistibly cheesy, savory, and easy to customize, it’s a dinner that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher. Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in garlic, cook for 30 seconds, then add taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in salsa, cooked pasta, and cheddar cheese. Mix until cheese melts and coats the pasta. Remove from heat, then fold in sour cream.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Top with desired garnishes and serve immediately.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes