Description
Craving something comforting with a spicy twist? This Taco Pasta combines the bold, zesty flavors of your favorite tacos with the creamy, cheesy goodness of pasta. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something hearty and satisfying.
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Ingredients
For the Taco Pasta:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey)
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 packet (about 2 tbsp) taco seasoning
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1 tsp chili powder (optional for extra heat)
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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2 cups beef or chicken broth
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
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1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
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2½ cups dry pasta shells (or elbow macaroni)
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1 cup frozen corn
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1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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¼ cup cream cheese (for creaminess)
For Garnish & Toppings:
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Chopped fresh cilantro
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Diced tomatoes
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Sliced green onions
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Sour cream or Greek yogurt
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Sliced jalapeños (optional)
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Crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Meat & Aromatics
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5–7 minutes).
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Stir in diced onion and cook for another 3 minutes until soft.
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Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Seasoning & Liquids
5. Sprinkle in taco seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the meat.
6. Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
7. Stir in the dry pasta shells. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
8. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for about 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Add Beans, Corn, and Cheese
9. Once pasta is cooked, stir in black beans and corn. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
10. Add cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese. Stir until melted and everything is creamy and well combined.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
11. Remove from heat and let sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
12. Serve warm with your choice of toppings: cilantro, diced tomatoes, green onions, sour cream, jalapeños, and crushed tortilla chips.
Notes
Brown the Meat Well – This builds flavor right from the start.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Stir occasionally and check for doneness early.
Make it Creamier – Add a splash of milk or extra cream cheese if you like it richer.
Spice it Up – Toss in diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Double It – This dish is easy to scale up for meal prep or a crowd.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Mexican Fusion