Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Pasta
This Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Pasta is your new weeknight hero, bringing all the vibrant flavors of tacos into one easy skillet dinner recipe. You’ll love how quickly this comforting dish comes together, making dinner a breeze.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease. Ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option.
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but you can use other small pasta shapes like cavatappi or rotini.
- Taco Seasoning: A store-bought packet works well, or make your own blend.
- Diced Tomatoes & Green Chiles: This mixture adds a tangy kick; regular diced tomatoes are fine if you prefer less heat.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp or mild cheddar melts beautifully, but a Mexican blend cheese also works.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Spices:
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- Crushed tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 550
- Tools Needed: Large skillet with a lid
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked beef and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chiles, tomato sauce, beef broth, and water. Stir everything together well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add the Cheese
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and creates a creamy sauce. You’ll love how this transforms your skillet dinner recipe.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Pasta immediately. Top with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips if desired.
Variation Ideas:
- Extra Veggies: Stir in frozen corn or black beans during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Spicier Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce with the taco seasoning.
- Creamy Texture: Mix in 2 ounces of cream cheese with the cheddar cheese for an even creamier result.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute for ground beef in this skillet dinner recipe.
What if my pasta isn’t cooking properly?
Ensure your skillet is covered tightly to trap steam, and if the liquid reduces too much before the pasta is tender, add a small amount of extra broth or water.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can assemble and cook it. The pasta may absorb more liquid upon reheating, so have extra broth on hand.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
This dish doesn’t freeze particularly well as the pasta can become mushy when thawed and reheated. It’s best enjoyed within a few days of making it.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure your taco seasoning is certified gluten-free.
What kind of skillet is best for this recipe?
A large, heavy-bottomed skillet with a tight-fitting lid, such as a cast iron or a non-stick skillet, is ideal for this skillet dinner recipe.
