Cheesy Taco Pasta
This Cheesy Taco Pasta is a one-pan, 30-minute dinner that blends the zesty flavor of tacos with the creamy comfort of pasta. Made with ground beef, salsa, cheddar cheese, and tender pasta shells, it's a satisfying, kid-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Servings: 6
Calories: 432kcal
Ingredients
- ½ pound large pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¾ cup water
- 1 cup jarred salsa
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Sour cream
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the canola oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Drain excess fat, leaving about 1–2 tablespoons in the pan.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the water and simmer until most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir in the salsa and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined and the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese, crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, and chopped parsley, if desired.