Description

Cheesy Taco Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the bold flavor of tacos and the cozy heartiness of pasta. Quick, budget-friendly, and packed with creamy cheese and seasoned meat, this one-pot dish is a go-to for family dinners and weeknight cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 small onion, diced
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
2 cups beef or chicken broth
2 cups pasta shells (or rotini, penne, macaroni)
1½ cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
Optional: ½ cup corn, ½ cup black beans, diced jalapeños
Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, cilantro, lime, crushed tortilla chips

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large skillet, cook ground meat and diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add taco seasoning and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
Pour in broth and uncooked pasta. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered until pasta is al dente, about 12-15 minutes.
Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
Top with optional salsa, jalapeños, sour cream, or tortilla chips before serving.

Notes

To make ahead, prepare the dish and store before adding cheese. Reheat and mix in cheese just before serving. For a casserole version, assemble, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly. Avoid overcooking pasta and add cheese off heat to prevent clumping.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One Pot
Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 510
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 730mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 80mg