Description
Craving tacos and pasta at the same time? This Taco Pasta recipe gives you the best of both worlds in one cheesy, hearty, flavor-packed skillet. Juicy ground beef, taco seasoning, tender pasta, salsa, and melted cheese come together in under 30 minutes for a meal that’s easy, comforting, and completely satisfying. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
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Ingredients
For the Taco Pasta:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken or turkey)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
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2 cups small pasta (like shells, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
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1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
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1 cup salsa (mild or spicy, your choice)
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2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
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1 cup frozen corn (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
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¼ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
Optional Toppings:
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Sliced green onions
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Fresh cilantro
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Diced avocado
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Crushed tortilla chips
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Jalapeño slices
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Meat and Aromatics
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5–7 minutes).
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Stir in chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until softened.
Step 2: Season and Add Liquids
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Sprinkle in taco seasoning and stir to coat the beef.
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Add pasta, diced tomatoes, salsa, and water or broth.
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Stir well to combine and bring to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer the Pasta
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Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
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Stir in frozen corn during the last 5 minutes if using.
Step 4: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
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Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
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Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheese on top. Cover for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
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Scoop into bowls and top with green onions, cilantro, or your favorite toppings.
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Serve hot with tortilla chips or a crisp side salad.
Notes
Use Short Pasta – Shells, elbows, or rotini work best to catch all the saucy goodness.
Shred Your Own Cheese – For the best melt and flavor, use freshly shredded cheese.
Adjust Heat – Use mild or hot salsa and add jalapeños to match your spice level.
Don’t Overcook – Stir regularly and check pasta for doneness to avoid mushiness.
Make it Vegetarian – Swap the meat for black beans or a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex-American