Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta

Here’s a full detailed recipe for Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta, a comforting, one-pot meal that’s flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for a family dinner!

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🌮🧀 Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta Recipe

✅ Servings: 4–6

🕒 Total Time: 30–35 minutes

🍳 Cooking Method: One-pot stovetop

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📝 Ingredients:

Main:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 or leaner)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups uncooked pasta (e.g., medium shells, rotini, or penne)

• 1 can (14.5 oz / 410g) diced tomatoes (undrained)

• 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot depending on your preference)

• 2 cups beef broth (or water + beef bouillon)

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade – see below)

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend)

• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (if using lean ground beef)

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh chopped cilantro

• Sliced green onions

• Jalapeño slices

• Crushed tortilla chips

• Additional cheese or sour cream

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🧂 Homemade Taco Seasoning (optional substitute for store-bought):

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

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🍳 Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet or deep sauté pan (with a lid), heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat (skip oil if beef has enough fat).

2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and mostly cooked (about 5–6 minutes).

3. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.

4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. If needed, drain excess fat.

Step 2: Add Seasoning and Liquids

6. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir to coat the beef evenly.

7. Add the uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes (with juice), salsa, and beef broth.

8. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Simmer the Pasta

9. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.

10. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

• If pasta absorbs too much liquid before it’s done, you can add a little extra broth or water.

Step 4: Make it Cheesy!

11. Once pasta is cooked, turn off the heat.

12. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and gooey.

13. For extra creaminess, fold in the sour cream.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

14. Let it rest for 2–3 minutes, then scoop into bowls.

15. Add optional toppings like cilantro, green onions, or tortilla chips.

16. Serve hot and enjoy!

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💡 Tips:

• Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or use a spicier salsa.

• Meat alternatives: Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat.

• Add veggies: Stir in corn, bell peppers, or black beans before simmering.

• Storage: Keeps in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.