Save to Pinterest A one-pan, family-friendly dish blending the bold flavors of tacos with creamy, cheesy pasta for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
The first time I made this cheesy taco pasta skillet was on a busy Tuesday night when everyone wanted something hearty and satisfying. It quickly became a favorite because it comes together fast and fills the house with a delicious aroma.
Ingredients
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Spices & Seasonings: 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Pantry: 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) uncooked short pasta (e.g., rotini, penne, or shells); 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained; 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) low-sodium chicken or beef broth; 1/2 cup (120 ml) tomato sauce
- Dairy: 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
- Garnish (optional): Chopped fresh cilantro, Sliced green onions, Diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Brown the Meat:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 4–5 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Season:
- Stir in taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to coat the beef.
- Combine Main Ingredients:
- Add uncooked pasta, canned tomatoes (with their juices), broth, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Cheese:
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Sour Cream:
- Fold in the sour cream until well combined.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, green onions, or diced tomatoes if desired.
Save to Pinterest This is one of those meals the kids ask for again and again, and it is perfect for cozy nights spent around the dinner table sharing laughs.
Optional Add-Ons
Add a diced jalapeño with the onions for an extra spicy kick. Top with avocado, more shredded cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Customization Ideas
Use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version, or switch to gluten-free pasta if anyone in your family is sensitive to wheat.
Serving & Storage
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through and creamy.
Save to Pinterest Serve your cheesy taco pasta skillet with a crisp green salad or tortilla chips for an irresistible weeknight dinner. Enjoy every cheesy, taco-packed bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work well as alternatives, offering a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Short pastas like rotini, penne, or shells are ideal as they hold the sauce and cook evenly in the skillet.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a diced jalapeño with the onions to introduce a fresh, spicy kick to the flavors.
- → Is it possible to prepare this using gluten-free pasta?
Yes, substituting with gluten-free pasta allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the dish without compromise.
- → What garnishes complement this skillet dish?
Fresh chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or diced tomatoes add brightness and a fresh finish.