Taco Pasta Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and irresistibly cheesy, this Taco Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the best of classic tacos with comforting pasta, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or even a cozy weekend treat. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying dinner without the hassle of multiple dishes.

This recipe comes from the talented Liz Marino, who mastered the art of transforming simple ingredients ground beef, bell peppers, and pasta into a rich, flavor-packed dish. The beauty of this taco pasta lies not just in its taste but also in its simplicity. You don’t need to be a professional chef to nail this meal; it’s approachable, forgiving, and totally delicious.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping a meal for friends, or just craving something comforting, this taco pasta hits all the right notes. It’s cheesy, savory, lightly spiced, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Taco Pasta

• One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Family-friendly flavor: Mild taco seasoning makes it appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Switch up the pasta shape, protein, or spices to suit your preferences.
• Cheesy comfort: Melted cheddar cheese brings a creamy, indulgent finish to every bite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need for this taco pasta recipe. This recipe makes 4 servings, with each serving being about 2 cups of delicious pasta.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ButcherBox Ground Beef
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• ½ tablespoon minced garlic (2 cloves)
• 2 cups red bell pepper, diced

Seasoning & Flavor Base:

• 2 tablespoons low-sodium taco seasoning
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Pasta & Liquid:

• 3 cups medium shell pasta (10 oz)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water

Finish & Garnish:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this taco pasta efficiently, you’ll need:

• Large pan or deep skillet with lid
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese from a block)
• Olive oil spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to create this delicious taco pasta, step by step.

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Spray a large pan or pot with olive oil spray. Heat it over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes to ensure it’s hot enough for sautéing the beef and vegetables.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Veggies

Add 1 lb. ground beef, ½ cup finely chopped onion, ½ tablespoon minced garlic, and 2 cups diced red bell pepper to the pan. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is cooked through and no longer pink. The vegetables should be tender but still vibrant.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Seasonings

Stir in 3 cups medium shell pasta, 2 tablespoons taco seasoning, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 2 cups beef broth, and 2 cups water. Mix everything thoroughly to combine. Cover the pan and bring to a boil, which should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Once the liquid is boiling, remove the lid and reduce the heat to medium. Stir every few minutes for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the liquid has reduced to a creamy consistency. This step ensures the pasta absorbs all the taco flavors.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Remove the pan from heat and add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until fully melted and incorporated, creating a rich, cheesy sauce that clings to every pasta shell.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the taco pasta into bowls or plates and serve immediately. For extra flair, garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.

Tips & Variations

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
• Pasta swap: Rotini, penne, or farfalle work equally well if you don’t have medium shells.
• Protein alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Cheese variations: Try pepper jack, Monterrey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor.
• Spice level: Adjust the taco seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This taco pasta is a perfect balance of:

• Savory beef: Deep, hearty flavor from the browned ground beef.
• Sweet crunch: Red bell peppers add a subtle sweetness and texture contrast.
• Cheesy creaminess: Cheddar cheese brings warmth, richness, and a gooey finish.
• Light taco spice: Mild taco seasoning enhances flavor without overwhelming your palate.

Side dishes that work best:

• Fresh garden salad or mixed greens
• Corn on the cob or roasted vegetables
• Garlic bread or tortilla chips

Nutritional Overview (Per 2-Cup Serving)

• Calories: 586 kcal
• Protein: 36 g
• Carbohydrates: 51 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sodium: 376 mg
• Sugar: 5 g

Dietary notes: Contains dairy, gluten, and beef. Can be modified to be gluten-free with alternative pasta.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Advance prep: Chop the vegetables ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Partial assembly: You can pre-measure pasta, seasonings, and liquids in a container to streamline cooking.
• Reheating: Heat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this taco pasta vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Q2: Can I use other pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Rotini, penne, or farfalle all cook well and hold the sauce nicely.

Q3: Can I freeze taco pasta?
Yes, but cheese may separate slightly when thawed. Freeze in an airtight container without cheese and add it fresh when reheating.

Q4: Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, add extra taco seasoning, crushed red pepper, or a dash of cayenne powder for a spicier version.

Q5: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir every few minutes and ensure the liquid level is sufficient during cooking. Covering only during the boil stage helps evenly cook the pasta.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Step	Time	Notes
Prep Pan & Ingredients	5 min	Chop vegetables and preheat pan
Cook Beef & Veggies	10 min	Until beef is fully browned
Cook Pasta with Liquids	12–15 min	Stir every few minutes
Add Cheese & Serve	3 min	Melt cheese fully

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in deep bowls to catch all the cheesy sauce.
• Top with fresh cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
• Pair with tortilla chips or a side of fresh corn salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

1. Tex-Mex Taco Pasta: Add black beans, corn, and a pinch of smoked paprika.
2. Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta: Swap ground beef for shredded cooked chicken.
3. Vegetable-Packed Taco Pasta: Add zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for extra nutrients.
4. Spicy Taco Pasta: Increase taco seasoning and add diced jalapeños or hot sauce.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ground Beef:

• Choose lean or extra-lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
• Look for high-quality, grass-fed options for better flavor and nutrition.

Red Bell Peppers:

• Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Select firm, brightly colored peppers with smooth skin.
• Dice evenly to ensure consistent cooking.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Brown the beef thoroughly before adding liquid to enhance flavor.
• Toast taco seasoning briefly in the pan for deeper flavor.
• Stir pasta frequently after boiling to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Add cheese off the heat to avoid curdling or separation.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze without cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Add cheese fresh when reheating.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	586 kcal	–
Protein	36 g	High protein from beef
Carbohydrates	51 g	Pasta is primary source
Fat	22 g	Includes cheese
Saturated Fat	10 g	From cheddar and beef
Fiber	4 g	From vegetables and pasta
Sodium	376 mg	Can reduce with low-sodium broth
Sugar	5 g	Natural from bell peppers

Expanded Conclusion

This Taco Pasta Recipe is a true weeknight hero. It’s fast, flavorful, and comforting, all while being versatile enough to adjust to your taste or pantry staples. From the savory beef to the sweet bell peppers and melty cheddar, each bite is a perfect blend of textures and flavors.

Try it this week and see why taco pasta is becoming a family favorite. Share it with friends, mix up the variations, and enjoy the simplicity of one-pan cooking without sacrificing taste. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll always have a go-to dinner that’s easy, delicious, and satisfying.

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