Description
This Cheesy Taco Pasta recipe combines the hearty flavors of seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar cheese with tender pasta shells, making a quick and delicious Tex-Mex inspired meal perfect for busy weeknights. Enhanced with salsa and taco seasoning, this dish is both comforting and full of zesty flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1/2 pound large shell pasta
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
Liquids and Sauce
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 cup jarred salsa
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the large shell pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon until it is well browned and no pink remains.
- Drain Fat: Carefully drain off the excess fat from the browned beef to reduce grease and calories.
- Season the Meat: Add the taco seasoning and 3/4 cup of water to the pan with the beef. Stir well and let it simmer until the water has evaporated and the seasoning has coated the beef evenly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked pasta to the pan with the seasoned beef. Add the jarred salsa and shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir all the ingredients together until the cheese has melted and the pasta is fully coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Serve Immediately: Dish the cheesy taco pasta onto plates or bowls. For added texture and flavor, optionally top with crunchy tortilla chips before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or hot sauce when adding the salsa.
- Use low-fat shredded cheddar cheese to reduce fat content.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stove or microwave.
