Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet (Printable)

A creamy pasta skillet with taco seasoning, ground beef, and melted cheddar for a hearty meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1 lb ground beef

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

02 - 1 small onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Spices & Seasonings

04 - 2 tbsp taco seasoning
05 - 1/2 tsp salt
06 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Pantry

07 - 2 cups uncooked short pasta (rotini, penne or shells)
08 - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
09 - 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth
10 - 1/2 cup tomato sauce

→ Dairy

11 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
12 - 1/2 cup sour cream

→ Garnish (optional)

13 - Chopped fresh cilantro
14 - Sliced green onions
15 - Diced tomatoes

# Directions:

01 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 4 to 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
02 - Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
03 - Stir in taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly to coat the beef evenly.
04 - Add uncooked pasta, canned diced tomatoes with juices, broth, and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients.
05 - Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
06 - Remove skillet from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
07 - Fold in sour cream until fully blended into the mixture.
08 - Serve immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or diced tomatoes if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Combines the crave-worthy taste of tacos with comforting cheesy pasta
  • Quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights
02 -
  • This dish contains dairy and wheat from the cheese and pasta
  • Check your taco seasoning and broth for hidden allergens like soy
03 -
  • Add a diced jalapeño with the onions for extra spice
  • Swap ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version
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