How to Create the Perfect Cheesy Taco Pasta

One-Pot Cooking Technique

Cooking pasta directly in the sauce allows it to absorb flavors while releasing starches that thicken the sauce.

Layered Flavor Building

Developing flavors by properly sequencing ingredients - browning meat first, then adding aromatics and seasonings.

Proper Liquid Ratio

Balancing the amount of broth to achieve perfectly cooked pasta without excess liquid.

Fresh Finishing Touches

Adding bright, fresh elements at the end to contrast with the rich, savory base.

Baking Tips

For a spicier dish, add a diced jalapeño with the onions or use pepper jack cheese in your cheese blend.

Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef for a lighter option.

Make your own taco seasoning with chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a customized flavor profile.

Short pasta shapes like shells, elbow macaroni, or farfalle work well as substitutes for rotini.

Add a handful of crushed tortilla chips on top just before serving for extra crunch.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.

For a creamier version, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese along with the shredded cheese.

This dish freezes well - portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cheesy Taco Pasta

Name: Cheesy Taco Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Mexican-American, Fusion
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet (1.25 oz) taco seasoning; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); 2 cups beef broth; 8 oz rotini pasta (about 3 cups); 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 avocado, diced; 1 lime, cut into wedges; 2 green onions, sliced; Hot sauce to taste (optional)

This Cheesy Taco Pasta combines the beloved flavors of Mexican-inspired tacos with the comfort of a hearty pasta dish. Al dente pasta is tossed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings to create a crowd-pleasing meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot wonder delivers all the satisfaction of tacos in a creamy, cheesy pasta form.

Prep Time

10 Minutes

Cook Time

20 Minutes

Total Time

30 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

1 pound ground beef

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 packet (1.25 oz) taco seasoning

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

2 cups beef broth

8 oz rotini pasta (about 3 cups)

2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

1/4 cup sour cream

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

1 avocado, diced

1 lime, cut into wedges

2 green onions, sliced

Hot sauce to taste (optional)

Instructions

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.

Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat mixture and stir to coat evenly.

Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Stir to combine.

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Add the pasta, stir well, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.

Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese and cover for 2 minutes to allow it to melt.

Dollop with sour cream and sprinkle with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and sliced green onions before serving.

Serve with lime wedges on the side and hot sauce if desired.

Cheesy Taco Pasta

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

How to Create the Perfect Cheesy Taco Pasta

Cheesy Taco Pasta

Ingredients

Instructions