Quick and Easy Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta Recipe

The aroma of sizzling ground beef mingled with zesty taco seasoning wafts through the kitchen, making your stomach do somersaults in excitement. Imagine a warm bowl of cheesy beef taco pasta that’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a hug in a bowl—perfect for those cozy nights when you want something comforting and delicious.

This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience! Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or simply feeding the family after a long day, this dish promises to deliver smiles and satisfied bellies. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that even your dog could probably make it (okay, maybe not quite). So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful adventure!

I once made this dish for my family during a surprise movie night. The kids were so enamored they declared me “Queen of Dinner,” which was pretty sweet until I remembered I had to cook again tomorrow.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: I typically use lean ground beef for less grease while maintaining flavor; feel free to substitute turkey if desired.
• Taco Seasoning: Use your favorite store-bought mix or make your own blend; it’s the secret behind that authentic taco taste.
• Pasta: Any short pasta works well here; I usually opt for rotini or penne as they hold sauces beautifully.
• Cheddar Cheese: Grated sharp cheddar adds the perfect cheesy goodness; don’t skimp here—it melts like a dream!
• Bell Peppers: Chopped vibrant bell peppers not only add color but also sweetness and crunch; choose your favorite colors.
• Onion: Diced onion brings depth of flavor; yellow onions are my go-to for their balance of sweetness and savoriness.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor profile; never underestimate the power of garlic!
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to keep the dish flavorful without overwhelming saltiness; it helps create a creamy sauce.
• Sour Cream: For that extra creaminess at the end, sour cream is essential; consider Greek yogurt as a healthier option too.
• Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds a pop of freshness on top; chop it finely or leave it out if you’re not a fan.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Ground Beef: Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula until no longer pink.

Add Aromatics: Toss in diced onions and minced garlic into the skillet. Cook until onions turn translucent and release their aromatic goodness—about 3-4 minutes.

Add Bell Peppers & Seasoning: Stir in chopped bell peppers along with taco seasoning. Mix well to coat everything evenly while those peppers soften up—this should take about 5 minutes.

Pasta Time!: Pour in uncooked pasta and chicken broth. Bring everything to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cover the skillet and let it cook until pasta is tender—around 10-12 minutes.

Melt in the Goodness!: Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Consider adding sour cream at this point for extra creaminess!

Serve & Enjoy!: Scoop generous portions into bowls, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top if using, then dig into your delicious Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta!

This dish is more than just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter and satisfaction. Whether you’re trying to impress friends or simply treating yourself after a long day at work, this recipe will become an instant favorite.

And remember—every bite is an adventure waiting to happen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef first, then add onions and garlic. Cook pasta while simmering the sauce for optimal flavor meld.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add black beans for extra protein. Customize with your favorite taco toppings!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Sometimes, I whip up this dish when friends drop by unexpectedly, and they rave about it every time. It’s become my go-to recipe!

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Penne or rotini work great in place of traditional spaghetti.

Is this Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta spicy?

The spice level depends on your seasoning; feel free to adjust according to your taste!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute beef with lentils or mushrooms and skip the cheese if you prefer.

Print

Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a delightful one-pot meal that combines savory beef, zesty taco flavors, and gooey cheese, making it the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onions and minced garlic; cook until onions are translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in chopped bell peppers and taco seasoning; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in rotini pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until pasta is tender (10-12 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Mix in sour cream for added creaminess.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Substitute ground beef with turkey or add black beans for extra protein. Customize with your favorite taco toppings like avocado or jalapeños.