Cheesy Taco Pasta
This Cheesy Taco Pasta combines the flavors of tacos with the comforting creaminess of cheese and pasta. It's a quick and satisfying dish that's perfect for a family dinner or a fun weeknight meal.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 large skillet
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 cheese grater optional
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning 1.25 oz or 35 g
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 8 oz or 226 g, reserve 0.5 cup for topping.
- 1 cup canned corn, drained
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- to taste fresh cilantro for garnish Optional.
- to taste avocado for garnish Optional.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the beef or chicken broth, salsa, and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta, corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Reserve the remaining 0.5 cup for topping.
- Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with the reserved cheddar cheese and garnished with fresh cilantro and avocado if desired.
Notes
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
You can substitute the ground meat with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option.
This dish is great for meal prep; simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop as needed.