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This creamy cheesy taco pasta skillet brings bold taco flavors into a comforting one-pot dish that comes together quickly and easily. It is packed with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and melty cheese all cooked together for a rich and satisfying meal.
I first made this skillet when I wanted a simple weeknight dinner that everyone would love and it quickly became a family favorite that I make often.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: adds hearty protein and a savory base
- Taco seasoning: delivers the signature bold southwestern spice use your favorite blend
- Dry pasta such as elbow macaroni rotini or shells: hold the sauce well and cook evenly
- Diced tomatoes with juices: bring acidity and depth choose good quality canned tomatoes
- Beef broth: keeps the pasta moist and infuses more flavor low sodium options let you control salt
- Shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend: melts into a creamy sauce freshly shredded cheese works best
- Optional canned corn and black beans: add sweetness and fiber
- Diced bell pepper: contributes fresh crunch and color
- Sliced jalapeños: add a spicy kick if you like heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Beef:
- Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness. Browning well builds a rich flavor foundation.
- Season the Meat:
- Add taco seasoning and stir thoroughly to coat the beef evenly with spices. This infuses the meat with classic taco flavor.
- Add Pasta and Liquids:
- Pour in uncooked pasta diced tomatoes with their juices and beef broth. Stir to combine everything evenly.
- Simmer and Cook Pasta:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes stirring occasionally so pasta cooks evenly and does not stick. The pasta will absorb most of the liquid and become tender.
- Melt Cheese:
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted and the mixture turns creamy and rich. The cheese thickens the sauce and adds a luscious texture.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Remove skillet from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken naturally. Top with sour cream fresh cilantro or sliced avocado for extra freshness and creaminess.
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One of my favorite parts is how the skillet resting time deepens the flavors. It reminds me of a cozy family dinner on a chilly night when everyone gathered around the table.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave adding a splash of broth if it becomes thick. This dish also freezes well thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken work well instead of beef for a lighter option. Vegetarian versions can use plant-based crumbles or increase the beans and vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it meat-free. Try different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of fresh green salad or crunchy tortilla chips for texture contrast. Top with chopped green onions or a squeeze of lime for brightness. Add a dollop of guacamole or your favorite salsa to enhance the taco theme.
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Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells hold the sauce well and cook evenly in this skillet dish.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans and vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir occasionally while simmering and use enough broth to keep the pasta moist during cooking.
- → Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly, but pre-shredded cheese works fine for convenience.
- → What toppings complement this dish?
Sour cream, cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or avocado add fresh, creamy, and spicy contrasts to the rich pasta.