Save A one-pan, family-friendly dish blending the bold flavors of tacos with creamy, cheesy pasta for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
I first made this cheesy taco pasta skillet on a night when the kids requested both tacos and pasta. It became an instant favorite because everyone loved the mix of flavors and how comforting it was after a long day.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (or ground turkey): Use 1 lb (450 g) for a flavorful base.
- Onion: 1 small onion, diced, adds sweetness and depth.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, for aromatic warmth.
- Taco seasoning: 2 tbsp, either store-bought or homemade.
- Salt: 1/2 tsp for balanced flavor.
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp to enhance seasoning.
- Short pasta: 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) uncooked rotini, penne, or shells.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g), undrained.
- Chicken or beef broth: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml), low-sodium for moisture and flavor.
- Tomato sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml).
- Cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g), shredded.
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml).
- Garnish: Optional chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or diced tomatoes.
Instructions
- Brown the meat:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 4–5 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Season:
- Stir in taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
- Add pasta and liquids:
- Pour in uncooked pasta, canned tomatoes with their juices, broth, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Add cheese:
- Turn off heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Finish with sour cream:
- Fold in sour cream until everything is well combined.
- Garnish and serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, green onions, or diced tomatoes as desired.
Save This cheesy taco pasta is always requested for our family movie night. It fills everyone up and puts a smile on the kids faces when the skillet lands on the table.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet with lid, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream) and wheat (pasta); may contain soy depending on ingredients used
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 550, Total Fat: 27 g, Carbohydrates: 45 g, Protein: 32 g
Save This skillet pasta is easy to customize and great for leftovers. Enjoy making it your own every time you cook!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I substitute ground turkey in this dish?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative and holds the bold taco seasoning flavors nicely.
- → What pasta types are best for this skillet?
Short pasta such as rotini, penne, or shells hold the sauce and cheese effectively, making them ideal choices.
- → How can I add extra heat to this dish?
Incorporate diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions for a spicy kick that complements the savory flavors.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Simply swap regular pasta for a gluten-free variety to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
- → What garnishes enhance the flavors best?
Fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and sliced green onions add brightness and a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.