Description
Taco Pasta is the ultimate mashup of two beloved comfort foods—zesty tacos and creamy pasta—combined into one easy, cheesy, flavor-packed dish. This one-pot wonder is loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese, all tossed in a taco-spiced tomato sauce. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or a hearty family dinner, Taco Pasta is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
• 12 oz pasta (elbow, rotini, or penne work well)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or beef sausage)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1½ cups water or low-sodium beef broth
• ½ cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, green onions, jalapeños, or lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5–7 minutes.
Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Garlic & Seasoning
Stir in minced garlic and taco seasoning.
Cook for 1 minute until fragrant and the spices are well distributed.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Sauce & Pasta
Pour in diced tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, and water or broth.
Add the uncooked pasta and stir to combine.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta Is Tender
Cover and let the mixture simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked through and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Stir in Corn & Cheese
Once the pasta is tender, stir in the corn and shredded cheese.
Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the pasta is creamy.
Step 6: Finish with Creaminess
Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh cilantro, green onions, or jalapeños if desired.
Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for a fresh pop of flavor.
Notes
Use Short Pasta – Elbow, penne, or rotini hold the sauce perfectly.
Don’t Overcook – Keep an eye on the pasta and stir often to avoid sticking.
Customize It – Add black beans, diced bell peppers, or olives for variety.
Adjust the Heat – Use spicy taco seasoning or add hot sauce for extra kick.
Make It Creamier – Add a bit of cream cheese or more shredded cheese for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex Fusion