Description
This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a quick and delicious Tex-Mex inspired dinner combining tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Enhanced with savory taco seasoning and salsa, it’s a flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Meat
- 12 oz pasta (such as rotini or shells)
- 1 lb ground beef
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup salsa
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasoning and Simmer: Stir in taco seasoning, beef broth, and salsa. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Melt Cheeses and Finish: Reduce heat to low. Stir in sour cream, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy. Season with salt and black pepper as desired.
- Serve: Serve the pasta warm, optionally garnished with chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef for a leaner option.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Use hot salsa or add chopped jalapeños to increase spiciness.
