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Taco Pasta Recipe

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This Taco Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed one-pot dish that combines the bold flavors of tacos with comforting pasta. Made with seasoned ground beef (or turkey), taco spices, cheese, and pasta, this easy 30-minute meal is perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work great!)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option!)
  • ½ small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning (or homemade, see below!)
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor!)
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth or water (adjust for desired consistency!)
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter twist!)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Crushed tortilla chips
  • Diced avocado or guacamole

Homemade Taco Seasoning (if not using a packet):

  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp salt & black pepper
  • ¼ tsp cayenne (optional for heat! 🌶️)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat & Seasoning

  1. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned (about 5-6 minutes), breaking it apart.
  3. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 2 minutes).
  4. Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir well.

Step 3: Simmer & Combine

  1. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  2. Stir in cooked pasta, making sure everything is coated in the sauce.
  3. Turn off the heat and mix in sour cream and half of the shredded cheese.

Step 4: Finish & Serve

  1. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover for 2 minutes until melted.
  2. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

  • With Garlic Bread: A great side for soaking up extra sauce!
  • With a Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad or avocado salad.
  • As a Casserole: Transfer to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.


Notes

  • Make it spicier! Add hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or extra cayenne.
  • Vegetarian option? Use black beans instead of ground meat.
  • Lighter version? Swap in whole wheat pasta and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
  • Extra creamy? Stir in 2 oz cream cheese for a richer sauce.