Easy Taco Pasta Recipe – Cheesy, Spicy & Delicious

I’m excited to share my favorite easy taco pasta dish. It’s perfect for a quick 30-minute dinner. This recipe is a one-pan wonder that’s healthy, cheesy, and spicy. It’s great for families and individuals looking for a satisfying meal.

This easy taco pasta dish serves 4 people, with each serving size being 2 cups. It contains 586 calories per serving. The recipe uses 1 lb. of ButcherBox Ground Beef and includes 2 cups of diced red bell pepper. It’s a nutritious and flavorful option. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or cheesy, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

Key Takeaways

• This easy taco pasta recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
• The dish is healthy, cheesy, and spicy, making it perfect for families and individuals.
• The recipe serves 4 people, with each serving size being 2 cups.
• The dish contains 586 calories per serving and is a good source of protein and fiber.
• This taco pasta recipe is ideal for busy weeknights and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
• The recipe uses 1 lb. of ButcherBox Ground Beef and includes 2 cups of diced red bell pepper.
• The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and frozen for up to 3 months.

Why I Love This Taco Pasta Recipe

I adore this homemade taco pasta recipe. It’s quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s great for families and individuals. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, using affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and canned goods.

This recipe is a breeze to make because it’s one-pan. The quick taco pasta meal lets you add your favorite toppings and seasonings. Whether you like it spicy or mild, this recipe fits your taste.

Here are some benefits of this recipe:

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• One-pan cooking for easy cleanup
• Customizable with your favorite toppings and seasonings
• Budget-friendly ingredients

In summary, this homemade taco pasta recipe is ideal for a flavorful taco pasta dinner. It’s quick, easy, and delicious. With its one-pan cooking and customizable toppings, it’s perfect for any day.

Essential Ingredients for Your Taco Pasta

To make the best taco pasta, you’ll need some key ingredients. These include ground beef, onion, garlic, bell peppers, taco seasoning, shells pasta, tomato paste, beef broth, water, and cheddar cheese. You can find these at your local grocery store, making it easy for everyone to make.

This taco pasta recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It takes just 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. In total, it takes 40 minutes to make and serves four people.

Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

• 1 pound ground beef (90/10 to 96% lean)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 medium bell peppers, diced
• 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 pound shells pasta
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

This easy taco pasta dish is not only tasty but also healthy. It has 904 kcal per serving, 51g of protein, and 5g of fiber. So, try this best taco pasta recipe and enjoy!

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make a tasty taco pasta meal, you need the right tools. A large pan, like a 3.5-quart saucepan or Dutch oven, is key. It helps cook the pasta and mix all the ingredients. Measuring tools are also important to get the right amounts of taco seasoning, salsa, and more.

Having a non-stick pan can make cooking easier. It prevents the pasta from sticking. You’ll also need a can opener for canned diced tomatoes and black beans. Don’t forget measuring cups and spoons to measure ingredients accurately.

Must-Have Tools

• Large pan (3.5-quart saucepan or Dutch oven)
• Measuring tools (measuring cups and spoons)
• Can opener
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Optional but Helpful Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Colander or strainer
• Cheese grater (for shredding cheddar cheese)

With these tools, you can make a quick and tasty taco pasta meal. It’s great for busy weeknights. Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal in no time with a simple taco pasta recipe.

Preparing Your Ingredients

To make a delicious taco pasta recipe, you need to prepare your ingredients well. This easy taco pasta dish requires basic items like ground beef, pasta, and taco seasoning. To make a homemade taco pasta, brown the ground beef, cook the pasta, and mix the taco seasoning as the recipe says.

Here’s a list of the key ingredients you’ll need to prepare:

• 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 4 oz. Velveeta cheese (or ¾ cup shredded cheese)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 oz. packet taco seasoning

When preparing your ingredients, shred the cheese from blocks for the best melting. You can also chop the onion and garlic as needed. For a taco pasta recipe that serves 6, cook the pasta shells and prepare the taco meat with the right seasoning and spices.

By following these steps and using the right ingredients, you’ll make a tasty and satisfying easy taco pasta dish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Always use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture in your homemade taco pasta recipe.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

To make a tasty taco pasta dinner, follow these steps. Start by cooking the pasta as the package says. Use 8 ounces of uncooked pasta and boil it in salted water. This ensures the right mix of flavors and textures.

While the pasta cooks, get the taco meat ready. Use 1 pound of extra lean ground beef and cook it in a pan with oil until it’s browned. Add 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for flavor.

After the pasta is done, drain it and set it aside. Then, mix the cooked taco meat with the pasta. Stir in 10 fluid ounces of Rotel diced tomatoes and 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese. Add 1/2 cup of heavy or whipping cream for a creamy sauce.

By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious taco pasta dinner. It’s perfect for a quick meal. This recipe is sure to be a hit with your family.

Adding the Perfect Taco Seasonings

To make a delicious taco pasta recipe, adding the right taco seasonings is key. You can use a homemade mix or store-bought ones. The right spices can take a simple recipe to a whole new level.

For homemade mixes, you can mix garlic powder, sweet paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. This way, you can adjust the flavors to your liking. Store-bought options are convenient but might need tweaking to match your taste.

For an easy dish, start with a taco seasoning packet. But remember, these packets are for 1 pound of ground beef. You might need to adjust the amount for your recipe. The right seasonings make your dish flavorful and satisfying.

Here are some tips for adding the perfect taco seasonings to your recipe:

• Use a combination of spices to create a unique flavor profile
• Adjust the amount of seasoning according to your recipe and personal taste
• Consider using homemade seasoning mixes for more control over the flavor

By following these tips and using the right taco seasonings, you can create a simple taco pasta recipe that’s both easy to make and delicious to eat.

Customization Options and Variations

When it comes to a taco pasta recipe, the possibilities are endless. You can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. Whether you like it spicy or mild, you can customize it to your liking.

Adding black beans, corn, or jalapenos can give your homemade taco pasta a flavor boost. You can also try different proteins like ground beef, chicken, or turkey. This way, you can make a flavorful taco pasta dinner that you’ll love.

Here are some other customization options to consider:

• Adding diced cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness
• Using different types of pasta, such as rotini or shell pasta
• Experimenting with various types of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack

By trying out these different customization options, you can create a taco pasta recipe that is truly unique and delicious. So don’t be afraid to get creative and make this dish your own!

Storage and Reheating Tips

After enjoying a delicious taco pasta recipe, it’s essential to store leftovers properly. This keeps the quality and flavor of the dish intact. You can store a quick taco pasta meal in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight freezer-safe container.

To reheat frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat using your preferred method, like stovetop or microwave. When reheating from frozen, add a little extra liquid. This ensures even heating and preserves the flavor and texture of the best taco pasta recipe.

Proper Storage Methods

Proper storage is key to keeping your taco pasta fresh and flavorful. Here are some tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container to prevent moisture and other flavors from affecting the dish.
• Label the container with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of how long it’s been stored.
• Keep the container in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.

Best Reheating Practices

Reheating your taco pasta can be done using various methods, including stovetop, microwave, or oven. Here are some tips for reheating:

• Use a gentle heat to avoid overcooking the pasta.
• Add a little extra liquid to the dish to ensure even heating.
• Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing your taco pasta is a great way to enjoy a quick taco pasta meal at a later time. Here are some tips for freezing:

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delicious taco pasta recipe for a longer period. Whether you’re looking for a quick taco pasta meal or a best taco pasta recipe, these tips will help you achieve the perfect result.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When serving my favorite taco pasta recipe, I like to get creative. This easy taco pasta dish is great for a quick weeknight dinner. With a few toppings, it turns into a tasty and fulfilling meal. Try adding sour cream, chopped cilantro, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.

Here are some serving suggestions and pairings you might enjoy:

• Serve with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal
• Add some diced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture
• Use this taco pasta recipe as a base and customize it with your favorite toppings
• Pair with a warm tortilla or crusty bread for a filling and satisfying meal

Feel free to try different proteins like ground beef or chicken for a new twist. This easy taco pasta dish is perfect for a quick meal. Its flexible ingredients and cooking time make it ideal for anyone looking for a fast and easy meal.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our journey with this delicious taco pasta recipe, I’m confident you’ll find it a weeknight winner. This easy taco pasta dish mixes taco flavors with pasta comfort. It’s a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make. It’s sure to become a new family favorite.

Looking to spice up dinner or want a quick, tasty meal? This delicious taco pasta recipe is perfect. It’s customizable and offers endless possibilities for variations. You can make it your own and cater to your family’s tastes. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in and enjoy the delightful fusion of tacos and pasta.