Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tacos and pasta in one delicious meal. It’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare. Plus, it’s customizable—feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap ingredients based on what’s in your pantry.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 600
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 900mg
Why Make Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to get your family to enjoy a balanced meal with protein and carbohydrates. The flavor is rich, thanks to the combination of taco seasoning and cheesy goodness, making it kid-approved and adult-friendly alike. Its versatility is a major bonus—feel free to adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta Step by Step
Ingredients
3 pounds ground beef
1 box small pasta shells
1 block Velveeta cheese
1 handful sharp cheddar cheese
2 packs taco seasoning
1 can original Rotel
Directions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning and prepare according to package instructions.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente.
- In the skillet with the beef, add the Rotel and Velveeta cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, mixing well.
- Top with sharp cheddar cheese and let it melt before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
For a complete meal, serve Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta with a side of fresh garden salad and garlic bread to round out the flavors. Alternatively, you can pair it with tortilla chips and salsa for a fun crunch. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a delightful finishing touch.
How to Store Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
To store your leftovers, place the Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. You can also freeze this dish for up to three months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this recipe.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein.
- Make it a one-pot meal by cooking the pasta directly in the skillet with the beef mixture, adding water as needed.
Delicious Variations of Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
If you’re looking to spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for heat. For a fresh twist, incorporate lime juice and fresh cilantro to give it a zesty flavor. You can also try a New Orleans version by adding andouille sausage and creole seasoning for a Cajun kick.
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is an outstanding dish that showcases incredible flavors while being easy to make. Its comforting texture and savory taste guarantee a hit at your dinner table. Don’t hesitate—give this delightful recipe a try and enjoy its cheesy goodness, whether it’s for a family meal or a potluck gathering!
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds ground beef
- 1 box small pasta shells
- 1 block Velveeta cheese
- 1 handful sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 packs taco seasoning
- 1 can original Rotel
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning and prepare according to package instructions.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente.
Mixing
- In the skillet with the beef, add the Rotel and Velveeta cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, mixing well.
- Top with sharp cheddar cheese and let it melt before serving.
