Taco Pasta Recipe
Looking for a comforting meal that combines the best of both worlds? This Taco Pasta Recipe is a delightful fusion of classic taco flavors and hearty pasta, making it a favorite for families and friends alike. With a savory blend of ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be whipped up in no time. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
– Quick and Easy: This Taco Pasta Recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
– One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required as everything is cooked in one pot.
– Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
– Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy, flavorful profile, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
– Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it great for leftovers or meal prepping for the week ahead.
What Goes In
- 1 pound lean ground beef (93/7) – The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein.
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced – Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic – A must-have for that aromatic kick.
- 1 packet taco seasoning – The secret to authentic taco flavor! (see note 1)
- 2 cups water, divided – Helps cook the pasta and meld flavors.
- 1 cup mild salsa – Brings a fresh, zesty flavor (see note 2).
- 1 cup frozen corn – A pop of sweetness and color.
- 2 cups elbow pasta (10 ounces) – The base of this delightful dish.
- 1 cup mild taco sauce – Adds moisture and enhances the taco flavor.
- 1-1/2 to 2 cups shredded 4-cheese Mexican blend or sharp cheddar cheese – For that melty, cheesy goodness.
- Toppings as desired – Such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños (see note 3).
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Large pot or Dutch oven – Essential for cooking the entire dish in one go.
- Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring ingredients and breaking up the beef.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Colander – To drain any excess water if needed.
Taco Pasta Recipe, Made Easy
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir in the finely diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Season It Up
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef mixture, stirring to combine. This is where the magic happens! The spices will infuse the meat with bold flavors.
Step 3: Add Water and Salsa
Pour in 1 cup of water and the mild salsa. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Incorporate the Pasta
Add the elbow pasta to the pot, along with the remaining cup of water. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and bring it to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 6: Add Corn and Taco Sauce
Stir in the frozen corn and taco sauce, mixing everything together. Allow the mixture to heat through for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Step 7: Cheese It Up
Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly into the dish.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop the Taco Pasta into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños. Dig in and enjoy this cheesy, flavorful dish!
What to Use Instead
- Ground turkey or chicken – You can substitute the ground beef for a leaner option.
- Gluten-free pasta – Swap out regular pasta for a gluten-free variety if needed.
- Vegetarian protein – Use lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy salsa or taco sauce – If you prefer heat, opt for spicy alternatives.
What Not to Do
- Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure the pasta remains al dente.
- Avoid using too much water – Start with the recommended amount to prevent a soupy consistency.
- Don’t skip the cheese – It’s essential for that creamy, comforting texture!
- Don’t forget the toppings – They add a burst of freshness and flavor that elevates the dish.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
This Taco Pasta Recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when ready to enjoy!
Quick Q&A
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can use any shape of pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils for added protein and fiber.
What toppings work best with Taco Pasta?
Toppings such as diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapeños work wonderfully. Feel free to get creative!
Can I double the recipe?
Of course! This recipe can easily be doubled. Just make sure your pot is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.
Time to Try It
This Taco Pasta Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. With its ease of preparation and delicious flavors, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Whether for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, this dish checks all the boxes. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how everyone at the table will enjoy it. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to savor a delightful meal that brings the fiesta to your kitchen!
Taco Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir in the finely diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef mixture, stirring to combine. This is where the magic happens! The spices will infuse the meat with bold flavors.
- Pour in 1 cup of water and the mild salsa. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the elbow pasta to the pot, along with the remaining cup of water. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir in the frozen corn and taco sauce, mixing everything together. Allow the mixture to heat through for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly into the dish.
- Scoop the Taco Pasta into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños. Dig in and enjoy this cheesy, flavorful dish!
Notes
- This dish is perfect for meal prep; store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Feel free to use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
