Cheesy Taco Pasta

Cheesy Taco Pasta is a quick and satisfying one-pot dish that blends the flavors of your favorite taco night with the comfort of cheesy pasta. With just 5 main ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, this simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Just 5 ingredients for ultimate convenience
• Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight meals
• One-pot friendly with minimal cleanup
• Bold taco flavor meets creamy, cheesy pasta
• Kid-approved and family-friendly
• Budget-friendly using everyday pantry staples
• Customizable with toppings and mix-ins
• Great for leftovers—reheats beautifully
• Protein-packed with ground beef and cheese
• Perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rotini pasta
• Ground beef
• Water
• Taco seasoning
• Salsa
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided)

Directions

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Cook until the water evaporates and the beef is evenly coated.
4. Add the cooked pasta and salsa to the seasoned beef. Stir until well combined.
5. Mix in 1½ cups of shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Remove from heat, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top, and let it melt before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 5
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
• Add black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition
• Top with sour cream, jalapeños, or avocado for a loaded taco vibe
• Swap salsa for enchilada sauce or a mix of salsa and diced tomatoes
• Use a different pasta shape like penne or shells
• Make it spicy with hot salsa or a dash of cayenne pepper

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Microwave in 30-second intervals or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it creamy.
• Freezing: You can freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, shells, or elbow macaroni will work well.

Is this dish spicy?

It depends on the salsa and taco seasoning you use. Choose mild or spicy to suit your taste.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with meatless crumbles or black beans.

What cheese blend works best?

A Mexican blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby is ideal for flavor and meltability.

Do I need to cook the pasta separately?

Yes, cook the pasta according to package directions before adding it to the beef mixture.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, onions, or even spinach can be stirred in for added nutrition.

How can I make this creamier?

Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream when mixing in the cheese.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, let it cool completely, then freeze in portions. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger pot to accommodate the volume.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made a day in advance and reheated when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Pasta is the ultimate blend of two favorites—tacos and pasta—in one easy, cheesy, and satisfying dish. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for hectic evenings when you need dinner on the table fast. Customizable and delicious, it’s a surefire hit with kids and adults alike.

Cheesy Taco Pasta

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• Author: Mari
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 5 servings

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Description

This Cheesy Taco Pasta is a quick and easy one-pot dinner made with just 5 ingredients. Packed with seasoned ground beef, salsa, gooey cheese, and tender pasta, it’s a kid-friendly and family-approved recipe ready in just 30 minutes!

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Ingredients

• 8 oz rotini pasta

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1/2 cup water

• 1 oz taco seasoning (1 packet)

• 1 1/2 cups salsa

• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided)

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Instructions

1. Cook rotini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large pot over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add taco seasoning and water to the beef. Stir and simmer until the water evaporates.

4. Stir in the cooked pasta and salsa. Mix well.

5. Add 1 1/2 cups of cheese to the pot and stir until melted and creamy.

6. Remove from heat and top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Let sit until melted. Serve hot!

Notes

• Customize with black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra flavor.

• Try ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.

• Leftovers reheat well the next day!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex