Description
Cheesy Taco Pasta is a quick and flavorful 30-minute dinner that combines tender rotini pasta with seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, and melted Mexican cheese. This hearty and family-friendly dish blends classic taco flavors with creamy pasta for an easy weeknight meal your whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 8 ounces Rotini pasta (or any pasta type available)
- 2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning (homemade for freshness)
Protein
- 1 pound Ground Beef (or ground turkey/plant-based alternative)
Liquids
- 1 cup Water (optional if using liquid salsa)
- 1 cup Salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
Dairy
- 1.5 cups Shredded Mexican Cheese (or cheddar/Monterey Jack), plus extra for topping
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot, then add the rotini pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Brown the ground beef: In the same pot, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium heat. Stir frequently until the beef is fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Add taco seasoning: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning along with a splash of water (about 1 cup or less). Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the water evaporates and the beef is evenly coated with the spices, enhancing the flavor throughout.
- Combine pasta and salsa: Add the cooked rotini and salsa into the pot with the seasoned ground beef. Mix everything thoroughly so that the salsa and beef distribute evenly throughout the pasta.
- Incorporate the cheese: Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded Mexican cheese into the pasta mixture while it is still on the heat. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely into a creamy sauce coating the pasta and beef.
- Serve with extra cheese: Remove the pot from heat, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish. Dish out generous portions into bowls and serve warm for a comforting, flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for ground beef for a leaner or vegetarian option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, use hot salsa or add extra taco seasoning to taste.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as diced bell peppers, onions, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creaminess of the cheese sauce.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and lean ground meat.
