Indulge in a savory blend of ground beef and elbow macaroni enlivened by zesty taco seasoning and fresh salsa. This easy pasta dinner culminates with a generous layer of melted cheddar, creating a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering both a burst of flavor and satisfying ease. Enjoy!
I recently tried my new Cheesy Taco Pasta recipe and I was really impressed with how fast and nutritious this meal turned out to be. I used 8 oz uncooked elbow macaroni, which is a great base for the dish, and added 1 lb ground beef for a good dose of protein.
The flavors really come together when you toss in a packet of taco seasoning mix and mix it with 1 cup of salsa – if you want a different twist you can go with diced tomatoes with green chiles. On top of that, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese not only creates that classic cheesy pasta feel but also adds a hefty amount of calcium.
This recipe is a no-fuss, fast dinner that still packs a nutritional punch and fits perfectly in the realm of easy pasta dinners and healthy beef dishes. I love that it comes together so quickly and is simple to whip up when you’re pressed for time.
Why I Like this Recipe
I like this Cheesy Taco Pasta recipe because it’s really fast and simple to make, plus I can get dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less. Sometimes I have a busy day and I dont have time to cook complex meals, so this one is perfect for when I need something quick.
I love the mix of flavors in this recipe. The taco-seasoned beef mixed with the pasta and melted cheese creates an awesome combination thats both comforting and a bit spicy. Its like having two meals in one!
Another thing i like is that its super customizable. If i feel like switching up the taste, i can easily change the salsa for diced tomatoes with green chiles or even add a little extra taco seasoning if i want that kick. This adaptability makes it my go-to recipe usually.
Lastly, i enjoy how satisfying it is. Each bite gives me that perfect cheesy, taco flavor that feels indulgent without taking forever to prepare. It may not be fancy, but its exactly the kind of meal that makes me feel happy and full after a long day.
Ingredients
- This dish expertly balances protein, carbs, spice, and creaminess for a flavorful meal.
- Elbow macaroni provides quick carbohydrates for energy and soaks up bold flavors.
- Ground beef adds hearty protein and rich flavor, supporting muscle repair and taste.
- Taco seasoning infuses the dish with a spicy, salty kick that awakens your palate.
- Fresh salsa introduces tangy acidity, vitamins, and a refreshing, zesty twist.
- Cheddar cheese delivers rich creaminess and melt in your mouth indulgence while adding protein.
- Each ingredient contributes unique nutrients, making the dish satisfying and somewhat nutritious.
- Enjoy this dish as a warm, comforting, and filling meal anytime.
Ingredient Quantities
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni works great)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup salsa (or diced tomatoes with green chiles if you like)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
How to Make this
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente, then drain it.
2. While the pasta is cookin, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef, break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned all over.
3. Drain any extra grease from the skillet, then sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix and add about 1/4 cup water to help the seasoning distribute evenly.
4. Stir in the salsa (or diced tomatoes with green chiles if that’s what you prefer) and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes so the flavors can mix well.
5. Once the pasta is done, add it into the skillet with the taco beef mixture and stir everything together.
6. Reduce the heat to low and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
7. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a couple of minutes so the cheese melts into every nook and cranny.
8. Give it a good stir after the cheese has melted, making sure it’s all nicely mixed.
9. Taste and season with a little extra taco seasoning if you want a stronger flavor.
10. Serve it hot and enjoy your cheesy taco pasta!
Equipment Needed
1. Large pot – This is used for boiling your salted water to cook the pasta properly.
2. Colander – Necessary for draining your pasta once it’s cooked al dente.
3. Large skillet – Needed for browning the ground beef and mixing all the taco flavors.
4. Heat-safe spoon or spatula – Helps to break up the meat and stir in the seasonings and salsa evenly.
5. Measuring cup – You’ll need about 1/4 cup of water for the taco seasoning mix.
6. Lid for the skillet – Used to cover the skillet so the cheddar melts evenly over the pasta mixture.
FAQ
Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe Substitutions and Variations
- 8 oz uncooked pasta: You could use rotini or penne instead if you want something that holds the sauce better
- 1 lb ground beef: Ground turkey or chicken work just as well, or you could even go for a veggie crumble if you’re tryin to cut back on meat
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix: Mix up your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder if you don’t have the packet handy
- 1 cup salsa: If you prefer a different flavor, try using diced tomatoes with green chiles or a bit of enchilada sauce to mix it up
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Monterrey jack or even a mix of cheeses like pepper jack can add a cool twist to the flavor
Pro Tips
1. Try adding a pinch of cumin or garlic powder to the beef while it browns for an extra kick of flavor, especially if you feel like the taco seasoning could use a little boost.
2. When the cheese is melting, toss a handful of crushed tortilla chips on top for some extra crunch and texture—it makes the dish more fun and unique.
3. If you really love creamy pasta, stir in a splash of heavy cream after combining the pasta and taco beef; it brings everything together nicely.
4. Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices at the end; taste the dish and add a little extra taco seasoning or even a dash of chili powder if you think it needs more heat.
Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe
My favorite Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Large pot – This is used for boiling your salted water to cook the pasta properly.
2. Colander – Necessary for draining your pasta once it’s cooked al dente.
3. Large skillet – Needed for browning the ground beef and mixing all the taco flavors.
4. Heat-safe spoon or spatula – Helps to break up the meat and stir in the seasonings and salsa evenly.
5. Measuring cup – You’ll need about 1/4 cup of water for the taco seasoning mix.
6. Lid for the skillet – Used to cover the skillet so the cheddar melts evenly over the pasta mixture.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni works great)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup salsa (or diced tomatoes with green chiles if you like)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente, then drain it.
2. While the pasta is cookin, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef, break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned all over.
3. Drain any extra grease from the skillet, then sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix and add about 1/4 cup water to help the seasoning distribute evenly.
4. Stir in the salsa (or diced tomatoes with green chiles if that’s what you prefer) and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes so the flavors can mix well.
5. Once the pasta is done, add it into the skillet with the taco beef mixture and stir everything together.
6. Reduce the heat to low and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
7. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a couple of minutes so the cheese melts into every nook and cranny.
8. Give it a good stir after the cheese has melted, making sure it’s all nicely mixed.
9. Taste and season with a little extra taco seasoning if you want a stronger flavor.
10. Serve it hot and enjoy your cheesy taco pasta!
