A perfect, cheesy, and zesty dish that combines two classic favoritesātacos and pasta! This Taco Pasta is a simple, flavorful dinner thatāll satisfy everyone at the table. Whether itās for a cozy family dinner or a special celebration, itās easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 pound large shell pasta (or any pasta shape you like)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 cup jarred salsa (choose your favorite or a mild/medium heat depending on your preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked, drain off any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir everything together until the water evaporates, leaving behind a flavorful, seasoned beef mixture.
- Combine Pasta and Beef:
- Add the cooked pasta, salsa, and shredded cheddar cheese into the skillet with the beef.
- Stir well to combine, making sure the cheese melts evenly and everything is mixed together.
- Serve:
- Once everything is heated through and the cheese is nice and melty, serve your Taco Pasta hot! You can top with extra cheese, sour cream, or even some chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh touch.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: If you like a bit more heat, add a few diced jalapeƱos or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the beef. You could also use spicy salsa to turn up the heat level!
- Add Veggies: Throw in some diced bell peppers or onions while cooking the ground beef for extra flavor and color.
- Swap the Meat: For a healthier or lighter version, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use a plant-based ground meat if you want a vegetarian twist.
- Cheese Options: Try different cheese blends! Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese would work really well here for a creamier, slightly spicier take.
Benefits of This Dish:
- Protein: The ground beef and cheese are great sources of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
- Carbs for Energy: Pasta provides a solid base of carbohydrates, which give your body energy and fuel your day.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Salsa contains tomatoes, which are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene. The taco seasoning can also provide a good mix of minerals depending on the brand (like potassium, iron, and magnesium).
Q&A:
Q: Can I use a different pasta shape besides shells?
- A: Yes! You can use whatever pasta you have on handāpenne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni would work great. Shells are just fun because they hold the cheese and sauce so well!
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
- A: Yes! You can prepare the pasta and beef mixture ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and just heat it up when ready to serve. You might need to add a splash of water to loosen up the sauce when reheating.
Q: Can I make it spicier?
- A: Absolutely! Add some chopped jalapeƱos or a little bit of hot sauce to the beef while cooking. You can even use a spicy salsa to kick things up a notch!
Q: Is this dish kid-friendly?
- A: Totally! Itās cheesy, flavorful, and mild enough for younger palates. If youāre worried about the spice, opt for a mild salsa and go light on the taco seasoning.
Q: Can I add beans to this dish?
- A: Yes! Black beans or pinto beans would be a great addition. You could either mix them in with the beef and salsa or serve them on the side as a topping.
This Taco Pasta is a fun, comforting twist on taco night. Itās easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and loved by all ages. Perfect for a casual meal or as a special dish to celebrate with the familyālike your parentsā anniversary! š Enjoy!