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Taco Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 712 reviews

This hearty Taco Pasta recipe combines the bold flavors of seasoned ground beef and tender pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a quick and comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners, featuring simple ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and taco seasoning to create a delicious Tex-Mex twist on classic pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 lb. ButcherBox Ground Beef
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped finely
  • ½ tablespoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
  • 2 cups red bell pepper, diced

Seasonings and Sauces

  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Pasta and Liquids

  • 3 cups medium shells pasta (10 oz)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups water

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Spray a large pan or pot with olive oil spray and heat it over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes to ensure it’s hot and ready for cooking.
  2. Cook the Meat and Vegetables: Add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell peppers to the hot pan. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully cooked through and no longer pink.
  3. Add Pasta and Seasoning: Stir in the dry pasta, taco seasoning, tomato paste, beef broth, and water. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Cover the pan and bring it to a boil, which should take approximately 5 minutes.
  4. Simmer the Pasta: Once boiling, remove the lid and reduce the heat to medium. Stir the mixture every few minutes for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has significantly reduced, creating a thick sauce.
  5. Finish with Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and integrated, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Use low sodium taco seasoning to control sodium levels.
  • For added freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired.
  • Can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • To make it spicier, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes along with the taco seasoning.

Keywords: taco pasta, ground beef pasta, Tex-Mex pasta, quick weeknight dinner, cheesy taco pasta

Find it online: https://leofoster.com/taco-pasta-recipe/