If you love tacos and pasta, this cheesy taco pasta brings the best of both worlds together in one comforting, flavor-packed dish. With seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and plenty of melted cheese, this recipe delivers bold taco flavors in a creamy, satisfying meal.
Everything cooks together in one pan, allowing the pasta to soak up the savory taco seasoning and rich tomato sauce. The result is a cheesy, hearty dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to be a family favorite.
Top it with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, fresh cilantro, or diced tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Weeknight Meal: Ready in about 30 minutes.
One-Pan Recipe: Minimal cleanup required.
Bold Taco Flavor: Seasoned beef and spices bring authentic taste.
Super Cheesy: Loaded with melted cheese for a creamy finish.
What You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (shells, rotini, or penne)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Diced tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro
- Green onions
- Sliced jalapeños
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Add Seasoning and Sauce
Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes to develop flavor.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the taco sauce.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and stir until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve hot and add your favorite taco toppings if desired.
Expert Tips for Success
Use Short Pasta Shapes: Shells or rotini hold the sauce best.
Add Cheese Gradually: Stir slowly so it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Let the Sauce Simmer: This helps the taco seasoning fully blend with the beef.
Variations and Substitutions
Chicken Version: Replace ground beef with ground chicken or shredded chicken.
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes.
Vegetarian Option: Use black beans or plant-based ground meat instead of beef.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy taco pasta pairs well with:
- A fresh green salad
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Tortilla chips with salsa
- Mexican-style corn
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend also works well.
