why make this recipe
Taco Pasta is a fun and flavorful twist on traditional pasta dishes. It combines the heartiness of pasta with the bold flavors of tacos, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, Taco Pasta is easy to prepare and guarantees satisfaction. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you!
how to make Taco Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or any kind you prefer)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup onion (chopped)
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing everything together.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
how to serve Taco Pasta
Taco Pasta is best served warm. You can dish it out in bowls and top it with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor. It pairs well with a side of sour cream or avocado for added creaminess. Consider serving it with tortilla chips for a crunchy complement!
how to store Taco Pasta
If you have leftovers, store Taco Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave it until heated through. You can also add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
tips to make Taco Pasta
- Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work great too!
- For added veggies, consider tossing in corn or black beans.
- To make it spicy, add some diced jalapeños or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
variation
You can easily customize Taco Pasta by adding different proteins like shredded chicken or beans. You could also swap the cheese for a dairy-free option or add different vegetables based on your preference.
FAQs
Can I use a different meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a healthier or vegetarian option.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat and veggies ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to eat, just cook the pasta and combine everything.
Is Taco Pasta kid-friendly?
Yes! The flavors are mild enough for kids, and they’ll enjoy the fun mix of pasta and taco seasonings. Just as an option, you can lower the seasoning to suit their taste.
Taco Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or any kind you prefer)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup onion (chopped)
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing everything together.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.