Who doesn’t love a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, requires minimal effort, and leaves everyone craving seconds? This Cheesy Taco Pasta is all that and more. With just five simple ingredients and a total cook time of 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. The combination of cheesy goodness, tangy salsa, and zesty taco-seasoned beef pairs beautifully with the tender pasta, making it a guaranteed hit for the entire family.
Easy Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe
This Cheesy Taco Pasta is a delightful fusion of Tex-Mex flavors and comforting pasta. Imagine al dente rotini smothered in gooey, melted shredded Mexican cheese combined with the rich taste of seasoned ground beef. Each bite delivers a medley of textures and flavors—zesty, creamy, and just a little spicy. This recipe is so versatile it can be served as a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep staple, or even as a fun dish for casual gatherings. Trust us, one bowl of this cheesy, taco-inspired pasta and you’ll be hooked.
Why Our Cheesy Taco Pasta Is the Best
Our Cheesy Taco Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for taco and pasta lovers alike. It’s quick, easy, and requires only one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the bold taco spices and creamy cheese elevate this simple recipe to a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients Notes for Cheesy Taco Pasta
Each ingredient in our Cheesy Taco Pasta plays a vital role in creating its irresistible flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- 8 oz rotini: The perfect pasta for soaking up all that cheesy, flavorful sauce. Feel free to substitute with penne or shells.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty and savory base. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- 1 oz taco seasoning: Adds the signature bold, zesty flavor. Use store-bought or make your own for a personalized touch.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps blend the seasoning with the beef and pasta.
- 1 1/2 cups salsa: Adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick. Opt for mild, medium, or hot salsa depending on your spice preference.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese (divided): The creamy, cheesy magic that brings everything together. You can substitute with cheddar or a taco blend if desired.
Kitchen Tools Needed for Cheesy Taco Pasta
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander for draining pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Cheesy Taco Pasta
Get ready to wow your taste buds with this simple and mouthwatering recipe!
1. Cook the pasta
Prepare rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the ground beef
In a large pot, cook and crumble ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. If needed, drain excess fat for a leaner dish.
3. Add taco seasoning
Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked beef and add 1/2 cup water. Stir well to coat the meat in that flavorful seasoning, then cook until the liquid has evaporated.
4. Combine the pasta and salsa
Add the cooked rotini pasta and 1 1/2 cups salsa to the seasoned beef. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
5. Add the cheese
Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese into the pot. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and coats the pasta.
6. Top with more cheese
Remove the pot from heat, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheese on top, cover, and let it melt. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Store Cheesy Taco Pasta
To store your Cheesy Taco Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals until warm or heat on the stovetop over low heat. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cheesy Taco Pasta Variations
Get creative with this versatile recipe by trying out these fun variations:
- Add veggies: Stir in cooked bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make it spicy: Use hot salsa, add diced jalapeños, or sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
- Swap the protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a unique twist.
- Top it off: Garnish with sour cream, diced avocado, or chopped cilantro for a fresh finishing touch.
What to Serve With Cheesy Taco Pasta
Pair your Cheesy Taco Pasta with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks also make great side dishes, complementing the creamy, savory pasta perfectly. For drinks, a chilled glass of lemonade or a zesty margarita will enhance the Tex-Mex flavors. To elevate the experience, serve with a light dessert like churros or a bowl of fresh fruit.
Top Tips for Perfect Cheesy Taco Pasta
- Cook the pasta al dente: This ensures the pasta holds its shape and doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts more smoothly compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Don’t skimp on seasoning: The taco seasoning is key to achieving that bold, zesty flavor. Adjust the amount to your taste.
- Let the cheese melt off-heat: This prevents the sauce from becoming too oily and keeps the texture creamy.
- Double the recipe for leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer a saucier pasta, add a little extra salsa or a splash of chicken broth when mixing everything together.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your taco seasoning is gluten-free.
- You can make this dish vegetarian by swapping the ground beef for a plant-based protein or additional vegetables.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten suggests always seasoning pasta water with plenty of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
- Guy Fieri recommends adding a splash of lime juice or zest to Tex-Mex dishes to brighten the flavors.
- Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman) advises mixing in a dollop of sour cream for an even creamier texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute rotini with penne, shells, or even elbow macaroni.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it as directed, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Use hot salsa, add diced jalapeños, or sprinkle in cayenne pepper for more heat.
4. Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Pasta?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- – 8 oz Rotini
- – 1 lb Ground beef
- – 1/2 cup water
- – 1 oz Taco seasoning
- – 1 1/2 cups Salsa
- – 2 cups Shredded Mexican cheese divided
Instructions
- Prepare rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, cook and crumble the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and water to the cooked ground beef. Stir and cook until the water is gone.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pot with the seasoned ground beef. Mix in the salsa and combine well.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese until melted.
- Remove the pot from heat, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and let it melt. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use your favorite salsa for different levels of heat (mild, medium, or hot).
- Feel free to substitute rotini with any pasta shape you like.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.