Description
Cheesy Taco Pasta blends seasoned beef, pasta, and melted cheese in one creamy, Tex-Mex inspired skillet dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2.5 tbsp homemade mix)
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: black beans, corn, green chiles
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
3. Mix in taco seasoning and stir well.
4. Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Add uncooked pasta and stir to coat. Cover and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste pasta; add more broth if needed until fully cooked.
7. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and cream cheese until smooth.
8. Let rest a few minutes before serving. Add desired toppings.
Notes
This dish is easily customizable—add black beans, corn, or green chiles for extra texture and flavor. Use your favorite pasta shape, and try pepper jack or Monterey jack for a twist on the cheese blend.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg