As I stirred the bubbling pot, the irresistible aroma of taco seasoning mingling with melted cheese filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to one of my favorite food memories. It’s those moments when a dish not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart that I cherish the most. Enter, The BEST Taco Pasta – a delicious mashup that reimagines the beloved flavors of tacos in a way that’s both quick and comforting.
This recipe came to life during a busy week when I craved something beyond the usual fast food fare. With simple pantry staples and a cooking time that barely scratches the surface of your evening, you’ll find this dish is not just easy but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner, impressing friends at a potluck, or just needing a satisfying meal after a long day, this taco pasta checks all the boxes. Dive into a bowl of cheesy, savory goodness that’s bound to become a weeknight staple in your home!
Why is The BEST Taco Pasta so great?
Simplicity at its core: With just a few easy steps, you can whip up a meal that brings taco night to the table without the fuss.
Flavor explosion: The rich combination of seasoned beef, spicy salsa, and creamy cheddar cheese tantalizes your taste buds with every bite.
Versatile delight: Customize your taco pasta with your favorite toppings—think avocado, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of lime for an extra zing!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or friendly gatherings, this dish will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Plus, for a little more inspiration, check out how I made this dish truly shine in my previous post on creative dinner ideas.
The BEST Taco Pasta Ingredients
• Gather everything you need for a deliciously cheesy taco experience!
For the Pasta
- Large shells pasta – 1/2 pound; perfect for holding all that tasty filling!
For the Beef Mixture
- Canola oil – 1 tablespoon; this oil has a high smoke point and keeps your dish from sticking.
- Ground beef – 1 pound; the heart of your taco flavors, but feel free to substitute with turkey or a meat-free alternative!
- Yellow onion – 1 medium, diced; adds a savory sweetness that complements the meat beautifully.
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced; fresh garlic provides an aromatic foundation for your pasta.
- Taco seasoning – 2 tablespoons; the magic blend that brings that fantastic taco flair to life.
- Dried oregano – 1/2 teaspoon; enhances the overall flavor with a touch of earthiness.
- Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon; a secret ingredient for depth and richness in flavor.
- Red pepper flakes – 1 teaspoon; adjust based on your spice preference to kick things up a notch!
- Water – 3/4 cup; helps to bring everything together in a delightful sauce.
- Jarred salsa – 1 cup; a quick and easy way to add fresh, zesty flavors.
For the Cheese
- Cheddar cheese – 1 1/2 cups, shredded; a must-have for that melty, gooey goodness everyone loves!
To Taste
- Salt – Add a pinch or two to enhance flavors.
- Pepper – Freshly ground, to taste; a little kick can go a long way.
For Garnish
- Cheese – Sprinkle more cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor!
- Crushed tortilla chips – For a crunchy texture and added flavor!
- Sour cream – A dollop adds creaminess and balances the spices.
- Chopped parsley – Fresh herbs for a burst of color and freshness!
This delightful combination makes The BEST Taco Pasta not just a meal, but an experience for the whole family!
How to Make The BEST Taco Pasta
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Cook the large shells pasta according to the package instructions until al dente; drain well and set aside. This will create the perfect base to soak up all the delicious flavors!
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Sauté in a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic, cooking until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma should make your kitchen feel inviting!
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Stir in the taco seasoning, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, and water. Bring this flavorful mixture to a simmer, then let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Mix in the jarred salsa and the cooked pasta into the skillet. Stir everything together and heat through until hot, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The colors and scents will be mouthwatering!
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Top with shredded cheddar cheese and remove from heat. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and gooey.
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Serve with optional garnishes like more cheese, crushed tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that extra touch.
Optional: Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for The BEST Taco Pasta
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Pasta Perfection: Always cook the large shells pasta until al dente; this prevents them from becoming mushy and helps them hold up better in the dish.
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Flavor Depth: Brown the ground beef thoroughly with the onions and garlic; this adds richness and brings out the best flavors in your taco seasoning.
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Customize Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance; it’s better to start small and add more if you like it spicy.
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Thicker Sauce: If your mixture seems too runny after adding water, let it simmer a bit longer to achieve a thicker, more cohesive sauce for your taco pasta.
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Garnish Wisely: Fresh toppings like chopped parsley and crunchy tortilla chips elevate your dish. They add both flavor and texture to your meal.
How to Store and Freeze The BEST Taco Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftover taco pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the taco pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool the pasta completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to bring back the creaminess of the dish.
Airtight Storage: Always make sure to wrap or store the taco pasta well to maintain its flavors and prevent drying out during storage.
What to Serve with The BEST Taco Pasta?
Creating a well-rounded meal is about matching flavors and textures that elevate each dish on the table!
- Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn with lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese brings a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully.
- Guacamole: This creamy avocado delight adds a luscious texture and a hint of zest that complements the dish perfectly.
- Quesadillas: Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, these are perfect for dipping in salsa or sour cream alongside your pasta.
- Taco Salad: Fresh greens, tomatoes, and crunchy tortilla strips create an excellent contrast to the warm, savory pasta dish.
- Chips and Salsa: A simple yet classic pairing, the crunchy chips with fresh salsa provide a fun, interactive element to your meal.
- Spicy Black Beans: The smoky flavor and slight heat of black beans create a delightful side that enhances the taco essence.
- Limeade: This refreshing drink balances the savory spices of the pasta with a zesty, sweet note, perfect for washing down your meal.
- Churros: For a sweet ending, these baked treats dusted in cinnamon sugar will satisfy any sweet tooth and round out your taco night!
Make Ahead Options
These delicious The BEST Taco Pasta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef mixture (combining the ground beef, diced onion, garlic, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’re looking to take your prep a step further, the pasta can be cooked and refrigerated for up to 3 days as well. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the beef mixture and pasta in a skillet, then stir in the salsa and top with cheese, allowing it to melt beautifully. This approach not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also ensures your dish is just as flavorful when it’s time to eat!
The BEST Taco Pasta Variations
Feel free to play around with these ideas to make this dish your own and discover exciting new tastes!
- Turkey Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option that’s just as tasty.
- Vegetarian Style: Use black beans or lentils instead of meat for a hearty and nutritious vegetarian meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few splashes of hot sauce for those who like it fiery!
- Creamy Addition: Stir in cream cheese or sour cream into the sauce for an ultra-creamy texture.
- Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for added flair.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach when sautéing the onions for an extra dose of veggies.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh cilantro or avocado on top can add a refreshing layer of flavor that brightens the dish.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta shells to make a delicious gluten-free version everyone can enjoy.
The BEST Taco Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pasta for The BEST Taco Pasta?
Absolutely! For this recipe, using large shells pasta is ideal as it captures all the delicious fillings and flavors. Look for shells with no cracks and a uniform shape. If you’re unable to find shells, you can also use rotini or elbow macaroni, as they hold sauce well too!
How should I store leftover Taco Pasta?
Very good question! Store any leftover taco pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water or in the microwave until it’s heated through. This ensures you keep the flavors intact without drying it out!
Can I freeze The BEST Taco Pasta?
Yes, you can! To freeze taco pasta, allow it to cool completely first. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible. It’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to restore the creaminess.
What if my taco pasta is too watery?
No worries! If your taco pasta turns out too watery, you can simmer it for a few more minutes on low heat to allow the sauce to thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and feel free to add a little more cheese or a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken it up even more.
Can I make this dish allergen-friendly?
Absolutely! To avoid gluten, simply use gluten-free pasta. If you’re concerned about dairy, try a plant-based cheese option. For meatless alternatives, consider using lentils or a meat substitute. Check packaged ingredients for allergens, and feel free to customize the spice levels to suit your family’s palate.
Is it safe for pets to eat leftovers of The BEST Taco Pasta?
It’s best to keep taco pasta away from your pets. Ingredients like onions and garlic are toxic to dogs and cats, so be sure to dispose of any leftovers responsibly if you have pets at home. Enjoy your taco pasta worry-free!
Discover The BEST Taco Pasta Your Family Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the large shells pasta according to the package instructions until al dente; drain well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat canola oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic, cooking until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in taco seasoning, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Mix in jarred salsa and cooked pasta into the skillet. Stir together and heat until hot, about 2-3 minutes.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and cover the skillet. Let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Serve with optional garnishes like more cheese, crushed tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.