Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, easy, and full of flavor. It brings together two favorite comfort foods into one satisfying dish. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare with pantry staples, and it’s highly customizable to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s both filling and delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
pasta
ground beef
onion
garlic
taco seasoning
tomato sauce
diced tomatoes
beef broth
sour cream
shredded cheddar cheese
olive oil
salt
black pepper
Directions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion and garlic until softened.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
Stir in taco seasoning, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until well combined.
Reduce heat and mix in sour cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve warm, optionally topped with extra cheese or fresh herbs.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 5 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: about 30 minutes
Variations
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or hot sauce.
Swap sour cream for cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Use different pasta shapes like shells or penne.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain the texture.
FAQs
Can I make taco pasta ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared in advance and reheated when needed.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells works best for holding the sauce.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the meat with beans or plant-based alternatives.
How do I make it creamier?
Add more sour cream or cheese for a richer texture.
Can I freeze taco pasta?
Yes, but the texture of the pasta may soften slightly after thawing.
What toppings go well with it?
Chopped cilantro, green onions, or extra cheese are great options.
Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Yes, store-bought seasoning works perfectly for convenience.
How do I reduce the spice level?
Use mild taco seasoning and avoid adding extra spicy ingredients.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are great additions.
Is it a one-pot meal?
It can be made in one pot if you cook the pasta directly in the sauce.
Conclusion
Taco pasta is a delicious fusion dish that delivers bold flavors and comforting textures in every bite. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a perfect meal for busy days when you want something satisfying and flavorful.
PrintTaco Pasta Recipe
A hearty taco pasta that combines bold taco flavors with tender pasta in a creamy, savory sauce. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Reduce heat and mix in sour cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm with optional toppings like extra cheese or herbs.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Make it spicier with jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
