Taco Pasta
Taco Pasta is a hearty meal combining pasta, ground beef, taco seasoning, tomatoes, and cheese.It delivers the bold, savory flavors of tacos in a comforting pasta dish.Ground beef adds protein and richness, while onions and garlic create a flavorful base.Tomatoes and broth help form a delicious sauce that coats the pasta.Cheddar cheese adds a creamy texture and a satisfying cheesy finish.Serve this easy recipe for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or casual celebrations.
Ingredients
- 250 g pasta, such as penne, rotini, or shells
- 450 g ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, if needed
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning, approximately 25–30 g
- 1 can diced tomatoes, approximately 400 g
- 3 cups beef broth or chicken broth, approximately 720 ml
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, optional
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin, optional if already included in the seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup chopped bell pepper, optional
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure all the ingredients before starting. If you are using bell peppers, corn, or black beans, prepare those as well. Shred the cheese for a smoother melt.Choose a large, deep skillet or saucepan with a lid so the pasta can cook evenly in the sauce.
Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil if the beef is lean, then add the ground beef.Cook for approximately 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Onion and Garlic
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.If using bell peppers, add them now and cook briefly to soften.
Add Taco Seasoning
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture. Add paprika, cumin if desired, black pepper, and a little salt if needed.Stir thoroughly so the spices coat the meat and vegetables. Cook for about one minute to bring out their aroma.
Make the Tomato Sauce
- Stir in the tomato paste and diced tomatoes. Pour in the broth and mix well, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Taste the liquid and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Add the Pasta
- Add the uncooked pasta directly to the skillet. Stir well to make sure most of the pasta is submerged in the liquid.Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for approximately 12–18 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cooking time depends on the pasta shape, so check the package directions and test for doneness.
Add Cheese
- Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has formed a thick sauce, reduce the heat to low.Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and optional mozzarella until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth to reach your preferred consistency.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the pasta rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and any toppings you enjoy.Serve hot with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or warm tortillas for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Choose the right pasta: Penne, rotini, and medium shells work well because they hold the sauce.
- Use lean ground beef: Lean beef helps reduce excess grease while providing a rich flavor.
- Check the liquid level: Pasta absorbs liquid as it cooks, so add extra broth if needed.
- Avoid overcooking: Check the pasta frequently toward the end to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Shred cheese fresh: Freshly shredded cheese generally melts more smoothly than many pre-shredded varieties.
- Adjust the spice level: Use mild taco seasoning for children or add chili flakes for extra heat.
- Taste before salting: Taco seasoning and broth may already contain plenty of sodium.
- Let it rest briefly: A two-minute rest helps the sauce thicken and cling to the pasta.