If you crave comfort food with serious flavor, Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is sure to become a household favorite! Imagine all your taco night dreams—juicy beef, zesty spices, tender pasta, and loads of gooey melted cheese—coming together in one skillet. This recipe takes everything you love about tacos and wraps it up in a creamy, cheesy pasta that practically begs for weeknight rotations. It’s family-friendly, fast, and checks every box for bold flavor and easy cleanup!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is all about simple ingredients with big personalities. Each component brings something special—whether it’s a touch of heat, creaminess, or crunch—so it’s important not to skip or skimp!
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef beautifully.
- Ground Beef: The heartiness comes from juicy, flavorful beef—lean or regular, you pick!
- Onion: A sweet, savory base that melds right into the sauce.
- Garlic: Just enough to add depth and an irresistible aroma.
- Taco Seasoning: The magical blend that delivers signature taco flair in seconds.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Brings a tangy kick and infuses the pasta with Southwestern zip.
- Beef Broth: Infuses the pasta with savory depth while helping it cook perfectly.
- Pasta (Rotini or Penne): Choose a shape that holds onto the sauce and cheese for the perfect bite every time.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a creamy, sharp blanket of goodness.
- Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: Offers a mellow, silky finish that balances cheddar’s tang.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning—adjust to taste near the end.
- Chopped Fresh Cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch just before serving.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Onion
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and diced onion, then use a spoon to break up the meat. Let them cook together, stirring often, until the beef is browned and the onion turns soft and fragrant. If you see excess fat, go ahead and drain it off—this keeps your Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta rich but not greasy!
Step 2: Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning
Sprinkle the minced garlic over the beef and onion, letting it sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Immediately stir in the taco seasoning, coating the meat mixture in all those irresistible spices—it’ll smell just like taco night in your kitchen!
Step 3: Pour In Tomatoes, Broth, and Pasta
Next, open a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and add it—juices and all—straight into the pan, followed by the beef broth and your uncooked pasta. Stir it all together, making sure the pasta is well distributed and covered. This is the moment all the flavors begin mingling!
Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta Is Tender
Raise the heat to bring your mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to medium-low, cover, and let it all simmer. Give it a stir every few minutes to make sure the pasta isn’t sticking to the bottom. In about 12 to 15 minutes, your pasta should be perfectly tender, with most of the liquid absorbed—just the way Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta should be!
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Once the pasta’s ready, switch off the heat. Sprinkle in your shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses and give it a good stir. Watch as it transforms into the ultra-creamy, cheesy goodness that defines this dish. If you like, season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to dial in the flavor. Don’t forget a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh, eye-catching finish!
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
Garnishes
Cilantro adds a pop of brightness, but you could also try a handful of sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, or even a dollop of sour cream for a little extra tang. Not only do these toppings boost flavor, but they also make your bowl of Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta practically picture-perfect!
Side Dishes
This hearty main dish pairs well with a crisp green salad, some simply sautéed veggies, or even a side of warm garlic bread to mop up all that cheesy sauce. If you’re hosting, tortilla chips and salsa on the side keep the taco night theme alive and let everyone have a little extra fun at the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta in small ramekins for parties, or scoop it into taco shells for a playful twist! You can even top with crushed tortilla chips or a layer of cheese, then pop under the broiler for a crunchy crust that’s completely irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (honestly, it’s rare!), scoop your Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to three days, and the flavors deepen even more, making next-day lunches something to look forward to.
Freezing
This dish is freezer-friendly, making it a great candidate for meal prepping. Let the pasta cool, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to two months—simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce as it warms, and stir in a pinch of fresh cheese just before serving to revive that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Rotini and penne both hold sauces well, but you could swap in shells, fusilli, or even elbows. Any short, sturdy pasta works beautifully in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
You bet! Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or drained canned black beans. Substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth, and you’ll have a fabulous vegetarian Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta in no time.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
If you like heat, add diced jalapeños when sautéing the onion, toss in a pinch of cayenne, or use spicy taco seasoning. You can also serve with hot sauce or sliced fresh chilies for an extra kick.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Pre-shredded cheese works in a pinch, but grating your own from a block melts much more smoothly and creates a luscious, creamy sauce. If you have the time, go for freshly shredded cheese!
What’s the best way to double this recipe for a crowd?
Doubling is easy—just use a larger pot and add a couple of extra minutes to the simmering time, making sure the pasta cooks evenly. Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser and disappears fast at gatherings!
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta really is weeknight magic—ridiculously tasty, one-pan easy, and guaranteed to make everyone at the table smile. Give it a try soon and savor all those taco and pasta cravings in one ultra-satisfying dish!
Print
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful one-pot meal that combines the elements of a beef taco with cheesy pasta, creating a delicious fusion dish that is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients
For the Taco Pasta:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups beef broth
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and cook beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until beef is browned and onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add seasonings and pasta: Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Melt cheeses and season: Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with cilantro if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños along with the onion.
- You can swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
