Description
Craving a cozy, comforting meal that’s loaded with bold Tex-Mex flavors? Look no further than Cheesy Taco Pasta! This simple one-pan wonder combines ground beef, taco seasoning, salsa, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta shells.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef
- Taco Seasoning
- Salsa
- Cream Cheese
- Cheddar Cheese
- Pasta Shells
- Corn
- Black Beans
- Chopped Cilantro
Instructions
1. 1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, making sure to crumble it as it cooks. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat from the pan.
2. 2. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. 3. Add the cooked pasta shells, corn, and black beans (if using) to the skillet, and gently stir until everything is well combined.
4. 4. Let the Cheesy Taco Pasta simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve warm.
Notes
Choose the Right Ground Beef – Opt for a leaner ground beef, around 90% lean, to avoid a greasy finished dish.
Experiment with Taco Seasoning – Feel free to use your favorite store-bought blend or make your own homemade taco seasoning.
Customize with Additional Ingredients – Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips can all add great texture and flavor.
Cook the Pasta Perfectly – Be sure to follow the package instructions to get your pasta shells al dente, so they don’t get mushy in the final dish.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 70