Save A one-pan, family-friendly dish blending the bold flavors of tacos with creamy, cheesy pasta for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
My family requests this cheesy taco pasta skillet whenever we have busy evenings. It&s a weeknight staple that always disappears fast, and I love how few dishes I have to do afterward.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (or ground turkey): 1 lb (450 g)
- Onion: 1 small, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Taco seasoning: 2 tbsp (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Uncooked short pasta: 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) such as rotini, penne, or shells
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g), undrained
- Low-sodium chicken or beef broth: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml)
- Tomato sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g)
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Chopped fresh cilantro: optional garnish
- Sliced green onions: optional garnish
- Diced tomatoes: optional garnish
Instructions
- Brown the meat:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 4&4 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2&3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add seasonings:
- Stir in taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to coat the beef.
- Combine pasta and liquids:
- Add uncooked pasta, canned tomatoes (with juices), broth, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12&14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add cheese:
- Turn off the heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Finish with sour cream:
- Fold in sour cream until well combined.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, green onions, or diced tomatoes if desired.
Save We love digging into this skillet together after soccer practice or game night. Even the pickiest eaters go back for seconds!
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cheesy taco pasta with a crisp green salad or tortilla chips for added crunch. A side of sliced avocado or a squeeze of lime adds brightness.
Make It Your Own
Customize the dish by swapping ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative. Add diced jalapeño for heat, or toss in extra veggies like bell peppers and corn.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Save This skillet dinner brings fun Tex-Mex flavor to your weeknights. Enjoy the melty cheese and bold taco taste in every comforting bite!
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta types work best for this skillet?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells hold the sauce well and cook evenly in the skillet.
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I make this dish spicier?
Add a diced jalapeño with the onions during sautéing for an extra kick.
- → What garnishes complement the flavors?
Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and diced tomatoes add brightness and balance to the rich dish.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety to accommodate dietary needs.